Microsoft is set to roll out the latest major release of Windows 11, version 25H2, to most users within the year. The upgrade will be automatically deployed to devices running the Home and Pro editions of the previous version, Windows 11 24H2.
Windows 11 24H2 will reach the end of official support on October 13, 2026, prompting Microsoft to advance users to the newer version. Windows 11 25H2 was released in October 2025 and primarily features enhancements for enterprise customers. Microsoft plans to support this release until October 12, 2027, with an additional year for the education, enterprise, and IoT editions.
The upgrade process will utilize a machine learning-based approach, which will automatically download and install on eligible 24H2 Home and Pro systems. PCs managed by enterprise IT administrators will not be part of this automatic upgrade. Microsoft stated that the upgrade will only occur when the device is deemed “ready,” although it has not clarified the criteria for readiness.
Users will have the option to choose when to restart their system or postpone the upgrade for a limited time. Concerns have been raised regarding the reliability of employing machine learning for managing major operating system upgrades, especially given previous issues with Windows updates.
Microsoft officials have acknowledged the need to “rethink” how they develop Windows code, reflecting criticisms within the tech community. This acknowledgment follows ongoing reliability issues associated with Windows updates. Copilot’s documentation cautions users to utilize the service at their own risk, indicating a recognition of the current limitations of relying on similar technology for managing updates.
Despite the planned automatic upgrade, power users have the option to employ third-party utilities to completely disable Windows Update if they prefer to delay moving to version 25H2.
