Microsoft Releases Windows 11 26H1 Only for New ARM PCs, Not Existing Devices

Overview

• The 26H1 build ships preinstalled on new devices using Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 chips and is not offered as an in‑place update for current Windows 11 PCs.
• Microsoft says this release uses a different Windows core, so devices on 26H1 will not move to the H2 2026 feature update and will instead have a future upgrade path.
• Devices on 26H1 will receive monthly security and quality updates, and updates remain manageable through Windows Autopatch, Microsoft Intune, and Configuration Manager.
• IT guidance remains unchanged, with organizations told to keep deploying versions 24H2 and 25H2 and to avoid altering purchase or rollout plans based on 26H1.
• Microsoft notes that .NET Framework 3.5 is no longer a Windows Feature on Demand in 26H1, signaling a shift for legacy app support on new ARM hardware.