What to know about Windows 11 version 26H1

Windows continually works in partnership with our OEMs and IHVs to support new device innovations. Windows 11, version 26H1 is a targeted release that supports some of the new device innovations coming in 2026. That means that this release is not being made available through broad channels but is only intended for those who purchase these new devices. At this time, devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon® X2 Series processors will come with Windows 11, version 26H1.

Organizations should continue to purchase, deploy, and manage devices running broadly released versions of Windows 11 (e.g. versions 24H2 and 25H2) with confidence.

Windows 11, version 26H1 is not a feature update for version 25H2. There is no need to pause device purchases or OS deployments, and no changes required to existing enterprise rollout plans. Windows will continue to have annual feature updates in the second half of the calendar year.

Windows 11, version 26H1 is a specialized Windows release designed to support the next generation of hardware innovation in partnership with device manufacturers and silicon partners. This release is available only preinstalled on select new devices coming to market in early 2026 and is intentionally scoped for these platforms. This article provides context on this release for the IT admins managing devices on behalf of their organization.

Unlike annual Windows feature updates, such as versions 24H2 and 25H2, Windows 11, version 26H1 isn't offered through Windows Update. This means that it can't be installed as an in-place update on existing devices. Windows 11, version 26H1 isn't intended for broad deployment across the existing Windows 11 ecosystem.

26H1 isn't locked into only being available for Arm64 devices. It is truly a full version of Windows but at this time has a limited and controlled release that is tied to these devices (partly/mostly for non-technical reasons). This is not a statement of future intent, just a statement of the technical reality of 26H1.

Jason_Sandys, Microsoft

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Windows 11, version 26H1 is a scoped release​

• Windows 11, version 26H1 will only be available on new devices with select new silicon as they come to market in early 2026.
• Windows 11, version 26H1 is not offered as an in-place update from Windows 11, version 24H2 or 25H2 on existing devices.
• There is no impact to devices already in market today.
• Devices running Windows 11, version 26H1 will continue receiving monthly updates for security, quality, and new features, the same as devices running Windows 11, versions 24H2 and 25H2.
• Devices running Windows 11, version 26H1 will not be able to update to the next annual feature update in the second half of 2026. This is because Windows 11, version 26H1 is based on a different Windows core than Windows 11, versions 24H2 and 25H2, and the upcoming feature update. These devices will have a path to update in a future Windows release.
• Windows 11, version 26H1 does not support hotpatch updates.
• Windows 11, version 26H1 security updates will be manageable through typical tooling – Windows Autopatch, Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Configuration Manager, etc.

This approach allows Windows to support the development of new hardware capabilities while protecting the stability and predictability that commercial customers rely on in production environments.

What this means for IT planning​

For IT admins planning refreshes, rollouts, or purchases, Windows 11, versions 24H2 and 25H2 remain the recommended releases for enterprise deployment at this time.

• New PCs being released with Windows 11, versions 24H2 and 25H2 are fully supported and continue to receive monthly security and quality updates following the official support lifecycle policy.
• For organizations with homogenous environments, those who prioritize standardization, long deployment windows, and large volume management, Windows 11, versions 24H2 and 25H2 remain the right choices. You'll always have a path to the next annual release when you follow the predictable H2 update cadence.
• Early adopters who wish to take advantage of the full benefits of new hardware platforms may evaluate Windows 11, version 26H1 selectively — without disruption to the rest of their estate. For instructions on how to check, see Windows 11, version 26H1 update history.

In short: Windows 11, version 26H1 should not impact your current Windows deployment and purchasing strategy. There is no benefit to waiting or deferring plans based on version 26H1, unless you are specifically targeting adoption of devices with silicon that requires such.

Our ongoing commitment​

We remain committed to:

• Predictable servicing and lifecycle policies
• Clear communication when action is required
• Strong backward compatibility
• Minimal disruption to enterprise operations

If and when a Windows release requires changes to deployment planning or management practices, we will communicate that clearly, directly, and with sufficient runway.

We'll continue to deliver updates through the same servicing model you rely on today. We'll keep you informed as Windows evolves and continues to improve performance and battery life for both existing and new devices.




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