Microsoft Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) refresh for Windows 11 version 25H2

Microsoft is pleased to announce that a refreshed Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) for Windows 11, version 25H2 is available starting May 12, 2026. This refreshed version replaces the previous version on the HLK Download site. The VHLK version is expected to be available within a week.

Partners may submit to WHCP using either the previous version or this refreshed HLK, provided passing results can be obtained (waivers acceptable).

What’s New​

This release includes playlist updates for 25H2, 26H1, and 24H2 Server. Changes include 43 test additions (25H2), 8 additions and 2 removals (26H1), and 2 removals (24H2 Server). All additions correspond to existing hardware requirements — no new WHCP requirements are being introduced.

Preview Period for Playlist Changes​

Starting with this release, we are introducing a preview period to give partners advance notice before new playlist requirements are enforced. This change is based on direct partner feedback requesting more preparation time for playlist updates.

How It Works​

- May 12, 2026 — Playlist and Kit Available: The updated HLK kit and compatibility playlist will be published to MS Learn. Partners can download and begin testing against the new requirements immediately.

- May 12 – June 9, 2026 — Preview Period: During this window, the HDC submission system will continue using the previous playlist for enforcement. Partners will NOT be blocked by the new tests during this time. Use this period to deploy the updated kit, update your playlists, and validate your hardware.

- June 9, 2026 — Enforcement Begins: The HDC playlist will be updated. When the May Refresh kit and playlist are used for testing, all new tests will be enforced for submissions from this date forward.

- Additional information: Partners can continue to submit using RTM versions of the kit and RTM playlist

What You Should Do​

- Download the updated HLK kit and compatibility playlist from MS Learn when available on May 12.
- Deploy the kit to your test environments.
- Run the new tests to identify any issues before enforcement begins.
- If you encounter test failures, file feedback through the standard WHCP support channels.
- Ensure your submissions are updated and passing by June 9, 2026.

Important Notes​

- No changes will be made to the playlist during the preview period.
- Submissions made during the preview period (May 12 – June 9) will NOT be evaluated against the new tests.
- After June 9, submissions using the newest kit and playlist will follow standard enforcement (manual review or rejection) for missing required tests.