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Microsoft has officially confirmed that it will soon begin testing a new series of behind-the-scenes platform updates for Windows 11 through upcoming builds in the 26200 range, which are now accessible to Insiders in the Dev Channel. These early builds are believed to be laying the groundwork for Windows 11 version 25H2, which is anticipated to launch later this year.
A recent Windows Central report highlights that Qualcomm’s upcoming Snapdragon X2 chip will require specific platform modifications, which until now were only found in the Windows Canary Channel. Microsoft is now extending these changes to the Dev Channel, ensuring that devices powered by Snapdragon X2 can seamlessly operate Germanium-based versions of Windows 11 with improved efficiency.
Germanium, the current foundational platform underpinning Windows 11 version 24H2, appears likely to continue serving as the base for Windows 11 version 25H2 as well. While Microsoft has yet to make an official statement regarding this, the decision to integrate key development features into Germanium suggests that both versions may share a common platform release.
Additionally, Microsoft is expected to introduce a range of optimizations to Germanium, aimed at boosting performance, strengthening security, resolving bugs, and enhancing the overall user experience. By maintaining a shared platform between Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, Microsoft could streamline the update process, making software upgrades more seamless and reducing complexity for users.
In recent years, Microsoft has been working toward minimizing platform fragmentation across different Windows versions. Currently, there are three distinct platform releases actively in use: Vibranium (Windows 10), Nickel (Windows 11 version 23H2), and Germanium (Windows 11 version 24H2). With Windows 10 support set to end in October, this may present an opportunity for Microsoft to unify its ecosystem under a single platform-most likely Germanium, unless a new platform like Selenium is introduced for future Windows client systems.
While Windows 11 version 25H2 has yet to receive an official announcement, it is widely expected to be released in the second half of 2025. With Windows 11 version 23H2 and Windows 10 version 22H2 both reaching end-of-support later this year, this transition could mark a pivotal moment for Microsoft as it moves toward a more cohesive and modern Windows experience for users worldwide.
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