August 28, 2026, 6:31 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Microsoft continues to work on the annual update Windows 11 26H2. It is expected to be released in the second half of 2026 and will reach PCs of various performance levels. This includes basic desktop computers as well as Copilot+ laptops. Microsoft has not yet finalized which features will actually be included.
Microsoft Faces Pressure on Quality
In 2025 and 2026, several Windows updates caused problems. These issues mainly affected monthly patches, but also the system update Windows 11 25H2.
Users reported performance drops, unfinished processes in Task Manager, and damaged recovery environments. In some cases, a PC reinstallation was necessary. Microsoft has announced improvements. Therefore, Windows 11 26H2 is likely to be important for quality assurance.
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These Innovations Are Expected for 26H2
The right-click menu is expected to become more organized and lose duplicate entries. Notepad might soon display images in text documents and offer additional text formatting options.
The taskbar and quick settings will also be revamped. The taskbar should be able to move to other screen edges while maintaining the centered arrangement.
For FAT32, Microsoft is testing a higher formatting limit. Instead of 32 gigabytes, drives up to two terabytes can be formatted. Disk management in settings is also expected to become faster.
Further work involves the start menu and widgets. The MSN news feed might be removed, leaving only selected content. Additionally, a redesigned Windows is planned.
Also of interest: Microsoft warns: These two Windows features slow down the PC
Copilot could serve as a central application bundling several AI functions. At the same time, the special Copilot key on keyboards might be eliminated. Additionally, the Smartphone Link app is expected to expand its connection to Android devices.
Release Likely in Fall 2026
Like Windows 11 25H2, 26H2 could also appear as a small activation package. This would unlock previously installed components, reducing data volume and installation time.
Since August 27, 2026, Windows 11 26H2 has been available in the Release Preview Channel. This is the final testing stage before general release. Microsoft has not provided a definitive date.
A launch at the end of September or early October is considered likely. Windows 11 25H2 was released on September 30, 2025, version 24H2 on October 1, 2024, and version 23H2 on October 31, 2023.