- By Prateek Levi
- Sun, 05 Oct 2025 12:56 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Microsoft has officially begun rolling out the Windows 11 25H2 update as of September 30, 2025. The latest version introduces AI-powered enhancements, a refreshed interface, and smarter recovery tools—all packed into a lightweight enablement package.
Easier Upgrade for Existing Users
For PCs already running Windows 11 (24H2), the transition to 25H2 is quick and seamless. Rather than downloading a massive new build, the enablement package simply activates features already embedded in the existing system files. This not only reduces installation time but also cuts down on data usage and downtime.
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However, users still on 23H2 or Windows 10 will need to follow the longer, full-upgrade route to move to 25H2.
How to Get the Update
To install the update:
1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates.
4. Select 'Download and install now' once Windows 11 25H2 appears.
What’s New in Windows 11 25H2
A Smarter, Cleaner Start Menu
One of the most noticeable changes in 25H2 is the redesigned Start Menu. Pinned apps now appear at the top, while recommendations and your complete app list are displayed below in a more structured layout. You can switch between three views—category, compact grid, or classic list—and even control how many apps or recommendations are visible.
There are also new personalisation options for hiding certain sections, showing frequently used apps, or pinning system folders like Settings or File Explorer directly to the Start Menu bar for quicker access.
Improved Energy Management
Microsoft has introduced a new CPU throttling mechanism aimed at reducing power consumption during idle times, particularly beneficial for laptops. Alongside this, Windows now logs diagnostic data whenever performance dips, allowing users to submit reports to Microsoft’s Feedback Hub for faster issue resolution.
Quick Machine Recovery
Windows 11 25H2 strengthens system recovery with a feature called Quick Machine Recovery, an evolution of the existing Windows Recovery Environment. When startup failures occur repeatedly, the system automatically enters recovery mode, connects to the internet, and downloads repair tools or updates directly from Microsoft’s servers.
Home users will find cloud-based recovery turned on by default, while Pro and Enterprise editions can enable it manually. If a fix works, the system reboots automatically; if not, recovery attempts continue as needed.
Widgets on the Lock Screen
The lock screen now supports widgets—letting you see live weather, stock prices, countdowns, or news snippets without logging in. You can customise which widgets appear and use the new Discover widgets section to explore more options.
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AI Features Now Active by Default
Several AI-driven tools that were previously limited to enterprise control in version 24H2 are now available to all users. These include:
-AI Actions in File Explorer
-Click to Do (for Copilot+ PCs)
-Agent in Settings (for Copilot+ PCs)