In this article, we will talk about Windows 11 in 2026, New Features, New Versions and Updates.
In 2026, we will have at least 6 Monthly Feature Drops, planned for each month of the first half of 2026, same as in 2025.
Version 26H1 is expected in spring with the New X2 Laptops and it should be the main testing platform for Windows 11 26H2.
Also, it looks like Windows 11 26H2 is going to end up being yet another Enablement Package on top of 24H2, build 26300. It will still be a Germanium-based release with a quick install process, no Bromine or Krypton update.
26H2 is expected to be released in September or October same time period from 2025.
The Canary Channel is also likely to stay on 28020 for much of 2026.
Build 29xxx+ is going to end up becoming the 2027 platform release (27H2 most likely, the H1 we’re getting in 2026 only exists because of new hardware oddities)
Related to the Windows 11 Insider Program, the Canary and Dev Channels will remain the Channels to watch.
New Features in 2026
The Main focus of Microsoft for 2026, will be New AI Features unfortunately and it could end up being a do or die year for Microsoft.
Another focus of Microsoft is the Gaming aspect as they will try to make Windows 11 the best place for gaming.
As Microsoft is stating, they are committed to making Windows the best place to play, and they will continue refining system behaviors that matter most to gaming: background workload management, power and scheduling improvements, graphics stack optimizations, and updated drivers.
Check this article from Microsoft, related to the New Gaming Improvements in 2026.
For more information about Windows 11 in 2026, you can watch the video below from the youtube channel.
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