Microsoft has opened the Release Preview Channel to Windows Insiders for the forthcoming Windows 11, version 25H2 (Build 26200.5074) enablement package (eKB), offering an early look at this year’s annual feature update.
Insiders can now opt in via Windows Update’s “seeker” experience, with general availability slated for later in the calendar year.
Key Takeaways
1. Windows 11 25H2 (Build 26200.5074) via enablement package.
2. Drops PowerShell 2.0/WMIC, adds UI/performance tweaks, app removal controls.
3. Install now in Release Preview.
Streamlined Delivery via Enablement Package
Windows 11, version 25H2, leverages a shared servicing branch with its predecessor, version 24H2, meaning both releases share the same cumulative updates while feature activation is controlled through an enablement package (eKB).
This enables Microsoft to deliver new features and enhancements through its continuous innovation pipeline without requiring a full OS reinstall.
Once Build 26200.5074 is installed, future monthly cumulative updates will arrive through the standard servicing channel, simplifying update management for both home and enterprise users.
Key delivery details:
- Enablement package (eKB) model for rapid feature toggling
- Shared servicing branch with Windows 11, version 24H2
- Continuous innovation via monthly cumulative updates
The 25H2 preview introduces several notable feature enhancements along with select deprecations:
PowerShell 2.0 and Windows Management Instrumentation command-line (WMIC) have been removed, aligning with Microsoft’s move toward modern management tooling such as PowerShell 7 and Windows Management Infrastructure (WMI) APIs.
IT administrators on Enterprise and EDU devices can now remove select pre-installed Microsoft Store apps via Group Policy or MDM CSP policies, granting greater control over default app footprints.
Visual refinements to the Start menu and taskbar behaviors, including updated animations and improved drag‐and‐drop support.
Kernel and scheduler optimizations aimed at reducing latency for foreground applications.
Commercial* customers can validate and deploy the preview build across organizational devices via Windows Update for Business (WUfB), Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), or Azure Marketplace.
Pre-release feature updates can also be managed using Windows as a Service (WaaS) deployment methods, documented by Microsoft.
Insider Preview Installation
Windows Insiders on PCs meeting Windows 11 hardware requirements can navigate to Settings → Windows Update and select “Download and install” under Optional updates to get Build 26200.5074.
After installation, devices remain enrolled in the Release Preview Channel and will continue to receive cumulative servicing updates automatically.
For organizations seeking offline media, ISO files for version 25H2 will be published next week on the Windows Insider ISO download page.
Should any issues arise during deployment or testing, IT admins can open support cases through Microsoft Support for Business.
Commercial devices are defined as non-Home editions managed by IT or joined to enterprise domains.
Continuous testing and feedback from the Windows Insider Program community ensure a polished release when Windows 11, version 25H2, reaches general availability later this year.
Find this Story Interesting! Follow us on Google News, LinkedIn, and X to Get More Instant Updates.
Source link
