Microsoft recently released a preview build of Windows 11, version 26H1, to users in the Canary Channel. However, this specific build isn’t intended to be the next major update for Windows 11. Instead, Microsoft is using it to test and prepare support for future, more advanced computer processors.
According to Microsoft’s announcement, the 26H1 update isn’t a major feature release for those using version 25H2. It only contains technical changes to work with certain computer processors and doesn’t require any action from users.
It’s still uncertain exactly what this means, but it appears that version 26H1 might only be available on new devices powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 and NVIDIA N1X processors next year. Microsoft also states that they’ll continue developing the main features for version 25H2, and those new features will be tested first by users in the Dev and Beta Channels of the Windows Insider Program.
Unlike earlier releases like 25H2 and 24H2, the upcoming 26H1 version of Windows is built on a more recent foundation, internally known as Bromine. The current build being tested with Windows Insiders in the Canary Channel – build 28000 – is likely the final version that will be released as the Bromine platform.
Microsoft has clarified that the upcoming version 26H1 won’t be a major feature update to the current Windows 11 (version 25H2), so current users don’t need to be concerned about it. They’re maintaining their yearly update schedule, meaning the next big Windows 11 update, version 26H2, is expected in the latter half of 2026.
We don’t yet know the specific features of the 26H2 update, or if it will be based on the current 26H1 release included with the Bromine version. However, we do know that future Arm-based processors likely rely on the changes made for the 26H1 version, but this won’t affect current Windows 11 computers.
What is Windows 11 version 26H1?
Windows 11 version 26H1 is a unique release built to work with the newest processors from Qualcomm and NVIDIA. Microsoft explains that this version focuses solely on supporting specific hardware and won’t be available as an update for regular Windows 11 users.
Will Windows 11 version 25H2 be replaced with version 26H1?
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 users with version 25H2 won’t be getting the 26H1 update. Instead, the next big update for current Windows 11 PCs will be version 26H2, expected in the latter half of 2026.
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2025-11-07 21:39