Windows 11 version 25H2 officially launched on September 30. However, many users found it wasn’t available through Windows Update unless they utilized either the Media Creation Tool or Installation Assistant. Following an exclusive report by Windows Latest, it had been anticipated that a wider rollout would commence during the week of October 14. Microsoft has now confirmed that the update is indeed being delivered to all eligible PCs.
It’s worth noting that Windows 11 25H2 is not a significant update, as it does not introduce new features. Users already operating on the Windows 11 24H2 version with October 2025 updates installed will notice no substantial changes. Essentially, 25H2 represents an iteration of the existing 24H2 build, distinguished only by a new version number.
Initially, access to version 25H2 was limited, with only select users receiving it upon checking for updates. Now, those who have enabled the “Get the latest updates as soon as possible” option will automatically receive version 25H2.
Interestingly, on one of my devices, I was able to see Windows 11 version 25H2 available even without the toggle for latest updates enabled. This observation suggests the update is indeed being more widely distributed. In response to my inquiry, Microsoft confirmed that the rollout is expanding, but emphasized that the update will not download or install automatically unless the relevant toggle is activated.
Microsoft has also revised its documentation, stating:
“Starting today, Windows 11, version 25H2, also known as the Windows 11 2025 Update, is available to all eligible Windows 11 devices for users who have turned on the setting Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.”
Microsoft cautioned that for this year’s feature update, devices will automatically download the new version if the toggle is enabled and the user is running either Home or Pro editions.
“PCs not managed by IT departments will receive the update to Windows 11, version 25H2 automatically, ” Microsoft announced.“Users can choose when to restart their devices or postpone the update.” This applies only when the “Get the latest updates…” toggle is activated.
Historically, Microsoft has gradually transitioned all users to the latest version. For individuals on the version 23H2, this will mean an automatic upgrade to version 25H2. However, as previously mentioned, given the similarities between 25H2 and 24H2, upgrading may not present significant benefits to users already familiar with 24H2.
Examining New Features in Windows 11 25H2
Although Windows 11 25H2 does not introduce new features, many users are curious about the revamped Start menu. This update is indeed on the way for Windows 11, but it’s not exclusive to version 25H2. Users with version 24H2 or later will see this new Start menu makeover as well:
When I inquired with Microsoft about the rollout timeline for the new Start menu, the company had no additional information at that time, stating only that it is being prepared for release in the coming weeks.
Moreover, the new taskbar is set to feature a search experience powered by Copilot, although Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for its public rollout.
“We have nothing to share, ” was Microsoft’s response when I asked about the release date for the Copilot-enhanced taskbar search.
Leave a Reply