On August 29, 2025, Microsoft released the first official preview of Windows 11 version 25H2 (2025 Update) in the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program. The update is rolling out as an enablement package for devices already running version 24H2.
Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 use the same underlying system files and architecture. That means there’s no need to reinstall or replace the core operating system to move between them. Instead of delivering a large, full-featured update, the software giant simply “flips the switch” with a small enablement package that activates the 25H2 features already present in 24H2. This makes the update faster, less risky, and easier to roll back.
By pushing 25H2 first to the Release Preview Channel, Microsoft can get feedback on new features, stability, and compatibility from a large but still controlled group of testers before shipping it to the public. Also, the Release Preview Channel is the last stop before general availability. So making 25H2 available here signals that the final release is close, and it helps Microsoft test servicing, cumulative updates, and ISOs before everyone gets it.
In early September, the company will also be making available the official preview of the Windows 11 25H2 ISO file, which you can use to perform a clean installation of the operating system.
Editions Includes
1. “Windows 11 Home”
2. “Windows 11 Home N”
3. “Windows 11 Pro”
4. “Windows 11 Pro N”
5. “Windows 11 Home Single Language”
6. “Windows 11 Enterprise”
7. “Windows 11 IoT Enterprise”
8. “Windows 11 IoT Enterprise Subscription”
9. “Windows 11 Enterprise multi-session”
10. “Windows 11 Education”
11. “Windows 11 Pro Education”
12. “Windows 11 Pro for Workstations”
13. “Windows 11 Enterprise N”
14. “Windows 11 Education N”
15. “Windows 11 Pro Education N”
16. “Windows 11 Pro N for Workstations”
Whats New
Some of the features that you can expect to find on Windows 11 25H2 include
Start menu redesign: Wider layout, more pinned apps, a new “All” apps section, and optional removal of “Recommended.”
File Explorer dark mode: More dialogs now match the theme, including copy and delete prompts.
Notification Center: Now shows full clock (with seconds) on secondary monitors.
Android app resume: Continue mobile app activity directly from the Taskbar.
Start menu sidebar: Expanded access to messages, calls, and photos from your phone with a new interface.
Click to Do: New “Describe Image” action, selection modes (Freeform, Rectangle, Ctrl + Click), and touch gestures.
Admin Protection: Prompts for elevation on untrusted apps—adds a visual warning layer.
Passkeys with 1Password: Native support for plugin-based passkey managers.
Text & image AI activity log: Track recent AI usage from third-party apps.
System Requirements
Processor: 2 gigahertz (GHz) or faster.
RAM: 2 gigabyte (GB).
Free space on hard disk: 25 gigabytes (GB).
Graphics card: DirectX 9 graphics device or a newer version.
Additional requirements to use certain features.
To use touch you need a tablet or monitor that supports multitouch.
To access the Windows store to download and run apps, you need an active Internet connection and a screen resolution of at least 1024 x 768 pixels
Languages: English | File Size: 6.25 GB
