Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- PCWorld reports that Microsoft has released the first Windows 11 26H2 preview to Dev Channel Insiders, marking a significant update with new features unlike the previous 26H1 release.
- The update introduces extensive Copilot AI integration across File Explorer, Windows Search, notification center, and a redesigned Run dialog box, though these features will likely remain optional.
- Microsoft delivers 26H2 through an enablement package that unlocks previously hidden features, promising meaningful innovations for the Windows 11 experience.
Microsoft has released the first preview of Windows 11 26H2 to Insiders on the Dev Channel, which will be the next major feature update for the operating system. Unlike 26H1, 26H2 brings real innovations.
This is Windows 11 (Build 26300.7674) and the details in the update section of this Windows preview indicate that this major update will once again come in the form of an enablement package.
An enablement package is one that unlocks features that already exist in the operating system but were previously unavailable. This allows the official update to be much smaller without requiring a complete reinstallation or in-place upgrade. Microsoft previously delivered Windows 11 25H2 as an enablement package.
According to Windows Latest, the “Windows 11 26H2” version designation doesn’t currently appear in the version information under Windows Settings, nor does it appear when you use the winver command in the Command Prompt. So far, “Windows 11 26H2” can only be found in the Windows Update section under installed updates—assuming you’re an Insider and you’ve installed this update.
New features in Windows 11 26H2
Microsoft has not yet revealed exactly what new features will be coming with Windows 11 26H2. However, the existing preview versions provide many clues. For example, Microsoft is testing a Copilot chat in File Explorer and Copilot will likely be shown in File Explorer’s right panel.
Copilot is also likely to be integrated into Windows Search in the taskbar. Both Copilot integrations are likely to be optional and not enabled by default, as Windows Latest suspects. Copilot is also finding its way into the Windows 11 notification center.
The preview versions of Windows 11 so far also show that Microsoft is testing a new Run dialog box. The changes appear to be more than just visual, as Microsoft may also be adding new features.
When will Windows 11 26H2 release?
Windows 11 26H2 is expected to be released in October 2026, the typical month for every year’s big fall update. (Windows 11 25H2 was previously released in October.) Once Microsoft has officially announced the release of Windows 11 26H2, the update is expected to be gradually rolled out to compatible computers.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.
Author: Hans-Christian Dirscherl, Managing Editor, PC-WELT
Hans-Christian Dirscherl began his IT life with Autoexec.bat and config.sys, Turbo-Pascal and C, Sinix and Wordperfect. He has been writing on almost all IT topics for around 25 years, covering everything from news to reviews and buying guides.
