Microsoft has updated its Windows release health dashboard to announce that Windows 11, version 25H2, is now available for all eligible devices. This stage of the release cycle indicates that the update has passed its initial testing phases and is stable enough for general use across the global population of Windows 11 PCs. For most users on the Home and Pro editions of the operating system, the update will be delivered automatically through an “intelligent rollout” process. This system uses artificial intelligence to determine which PCs are most ready for the update based on hardware compatibility and software telemetry.
For those still using Windows 10 on hardware that meets the Windows 11 system requirements, version 25H2 is now being offered as a direct upgrade path. This allows users to move straight to the latest stable version of the operating system in a single step. Microsoft is encouraging eligible users to make the transition as part of its ongoing effort to migrate the user base to Windows 11 ahead of the eventual retirement of older software versions.
Table of Contents
How to get the update manually
While the automatic rollout will reach all users over the next few months, those who want to install the update immediately can do so through the Windows Update settings. To check for the update, users should go to Settings > Windows Update and select “Check for updates.” If the 25H2 version does not appear, there is a specific toggle titled “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” that can be enabled to prioritize the device for the newest releases.
After enabling this toggle and checking for updates again, the 25H2 installation should become available. It is important to note that once the installation is complete, users may want to turn this toggle back off to avoid receiving “preview” updates, which are early versions of features that are still in testing. The installation process for 25H2 is designed to be relatively quick, as it functions similarly to a monthly cumulative update for those already running version 24H2.
What’s new in version 25H2
Windows 11 25H2 is a refined update that focuses on stability and minor interface improvements rather than introducing radical new functionality. One of the primary changes included in this release is the broader rollout of the refreshed Start menu, which provides more customization options for pinned apps and recommendations. The update also includes underlying performance optimizations designed to make the system feel more responsive during daily tasks.
Beyond the visible changes, 25H2 includes a significant number of security patches and bug fixes that address issues reported during the previous year. Microsoft has also improved the integration of its AI-driven features, ensuring that tools like Copilot are more efficiently integrated into the system’s resource management. For most users, the update is a “maintenance” release that ensures the operating system remains secure and compatible with the latest hardware and software released in early 2026.
