Microsoft has begun rolling out the Windows 11, version 25H2 (Build 26200.5074) preview to the Release Preview Channel, offering enthusiasts and enterprise customers an early look at this year’s annual feature update ahead of general availability later in 2025.
This build arrives as an enablement package (eKB), streamlining the installation process by sharing a common servicing branch with the current Windows 11, version 24H2 release.
At its core, the 25H2 update does not introduce a raft of entirely new features but rather activates several enhancements that have been quietly delivered through Microsoft’s continuous innovation efforts.
Users upgrading from 24H2 will receive the same functionality, from interface polish to under-the-hood improvements, with a minimal download footprint thanks to the eKB approach.
This method ensures faster installation and a more stable servicing lifecycle, as both 24H2 and 25H2 now draw from identical servicing pipelines.
Among the most notable changes is the removal of legacy components, including PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC).
These deprecations align Windows 11 with modern administration practices and encourage organizations to adopt more secure, supported management tools.
For business and education environments, 25H2 brings a highly requested ability: IT administrators can now remove select pre-installed Microsoft Store apps through Group Policy or MDM CSP on Enterprise and EDU devices.
This change empowers organizations to streamline devices to meet specific workflow requirements, reducing bloat and improving system performance.
Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel can access the 25H2 preview via the “seeker” experience in Windows Update.
Eligible devices that meet Windows 11 hardware requirements simply need to navigate to Settings > Windows Update to opt in. Once installed, devices will continue to receive monthly servicing updates as usual.
For those not yet enrolled, joining the Windows Insider Program and selecting the Release Preview Channel is the first step to testing.
Commercial customers participating in the Windows Insider Program for Business can deploy the preview through Windows Update for Business, Windows Server Update Services, and, soon, the Azure Marketplace.
These channels allow IT teams to validate compatibility at scale and remediate issues before the public rollout. Should any obstacles arise, Microsoft Support stands ready to assist enterprise deployments of Release Preview updates.
Looking ahead, Microsoft will publish ISO images for Windows 11, version 25H2 on the Windows Insider ISO download page next week, enabling clean installations and Virtual Machine tests.
With this incremental, but strategically significant update, Windows 11 continues its evolution toward greater stability, streamlined deployment, and refined user experience—all powered by Microsoft’s commitment to continuous innovation.
The Windows Insider Program Team encourages all eligible users and organizations to explore 25H2 and provide feedback before the official release later this year.
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