Windows 11 version 26H2 lands soon, and these are 10 things you need to know before upgrading - Windows Central

What the report says

Windows Central reports that Microsoft is expected to release Windows 11 version 26H2, also described as the 2026 Update, later this year as the fifth feature update for Windows 11. The outlet says the release is not expected to be a major platform change: version 26H2 is described as sharing the same underlying operating system platform and feature set as version 25H2, with the most visible differences likely to be versioning, build numbers and support timelines.

According to Windows Central, the upgrade path will depend on what a device is currently running. PCs already on Windows 11 versions 24H2 or 25H2 are expected to receive 26H2 through an enablement package, a smaller update that can be installed more like a monthly cumulative update and should require only a restart. Devices on older Windows 11 releases, such as 23H2, and PCs moving from Windows 10 would need a fuller feature update. The outlet also notes that using ISO files or other installation media can trigger a full in-place upgrade even when a smaller Windows Update path is available.

The report says the main reason to install version 26H2 is likely continued support rather than new capabilities. Windows Central says version 25H2 is supported until October 2027, while 26H2 is expected to extend the support window by another year. It also notes that version 24H2 is set to retire on October 13, 2026.

Windows Central says Microsoft is not expected to change Windows 11 hardware requirements for 26H2. Devices that can run version 25H2 should remain eligible, subject to existing requirements such as TPM 2.0, supported processors, Secure Boot-capable UEFI firmware, memory, storage, graphics and display standards. The rollout is expected to be gradual, with Microsoft monitoring compatibility before broader availability.