Windows 11 26H2 follows the model of an enablement package and is technically based on version 25H2. An enablement package is a small feature update that does not trigger a complete reinstallation of the operating system. Microsoft uses this process to unlock existing but previously disabled features that were added to the system via regular monthly updates. The enablement package essentially changes the version identifier of Windows and activates these features collectively without comprehensively replacing system files or affecting existing applications and settings. The installation process takes only a few minutes and is technically more like a cumulative update than a classic feature upgrade. The update to 26H2 changes the version identifier without reinstallation and extends the support period by 24 months for consumer editions and 36 months for business editions. Functional changes already reach systems via monthly updates for 25H2 and then carry over unchanged to 26H2. A significant increase in functionality is particularly evident on systems migrating from older versions such as 23H2. The rollout is scheduled for the familiar time window from late September to early October 2026. Those participating in the Insider Program will, of course, receive the new features in advance as a test version. Save 60% on Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Pro Price When Reviewed: 69,99 Euro Best Prices Today: 49,99 € at PC-WELT Software-Shop – Windows 11 Home | 69,99 € at PC-WELT Software-Shop – Windows 11 Pro Copilot-based search on the taskbar The classic Windows search is being replaced by an optional “Ask Copilot” feature. This can be activated in the taskbar settings under “Personalization.” Once activated, a compact search window opens with direct access to applications, files, and system settings. The technical basis remains the existing Windows search index. Thomas Joos Copilot also interprets the user’s intentions and links search queries to appropriate settings, such as brightness or display parameters. The interface does not display Bing pop-ups and responds noticeably more directly. A later extension will include file and image uploads as well as Copilot Vision, which incorporates content from open applications. Without activation, the familiar Windows search remains unchanged on the taskbar. Copilot does not access local data unless files are explicitly transferred. File Explorer with revised context structure File Explorer has been given a restructured context logic with nested menus to reduce the number of visible entries. Actions such as compression, path copying, or image rotation are grouped under “Manage file.” Image-related functions such as background assignment or rotation are also grouped together. Compression formats can be selected in a separate submenu. OneDrive-related options are moved to a separate area. Individual commands such as “Ask Copilot,” “Edit with Clipchamp,” “Edit in Notepad,” “Edit in Paint,” and Microsoft Photos still appear multiple times. Context-dependent prioritization via ML does not take place. At the same time, Microsoft is working on a dark display for the Properties tab in File Explorer. In addition, background preloading of Explorer is being tested to speed up startup, which can be disabled in the folder options. Copilot integration in File Explorer In addition, there will be deeper Copilot integration in File Explorer. The plan is to have a dockable side panel near the detail and preview views with the option to detach it into a separate window. Unlike the current forwarding of files to the Copilot app, Copilot operates directly in the file system and allows dialog-based interactions with folders and files. Thomas Joos The Run window, which has remained unchanged for decades, will get a WinUI-based variant with a Mica background, an enlarged input field, and a command overview above the input. It can be activated in the advanced section of the system settings. Once activated, the system will hide the classic variant. The new interface displays matching applications, including icons, as you type. At the same time, Microsoft is testing a dark mode for the classic Run window. Both versions coexist as options. Return of the agenda in the notification center The agenda view returns to the notification center and integrates with Outlook. After logging in, appointments are automatically synchronized and appear in the Win+N calendar view. The implementation uses WebView2 and occupies over 100MB of RAM. The view allows you to join meetings and view current appointments in real time. A Copilot button complements the interface. System Monitor as an integrated security component Sysinternals System Monitor is integrated directly into Windows 11. The component comes from the external Sysinternals suite and logs system events for threat detection. Events are stored in the Windows event database and can be filtered using separate configuration files. Activation is optional via Windows features or the command line. No restart is required. Camera settings and emoji update The camera settings have been expanded to include pan and tilt control for supported hardware. The options appear in the settings under “Bluetooth and devices” in the basic camera settings. The interface currently still shows inconsistencies in window adjustment. At the same time, Microsoft is introducing Emoji version 16.0 with new symbols. Gaming mode with Xbox full-screen interface An optional full-screen mode replaces the desktop interface with a controller-oriented dashboard based on the existing Xbox apps. It can be activated in the gaming settings. The mode reduces background processes and saves system resources, which has an impact on gaming performance and battery life. A restart activates the new interface. You can switch back to the desktop using the Windows key. For productive work, it is recommended to deactivate it before restarting. Agentic AI functions in the system An experimental area for agentic functions appears in the AI components of the settings. Applications such as Copilot take on automated tasks related to file organization, scheduling, or emailing. The function remains disabled until you turn it on and use it. Thomas Joos Bug fixes and detail improvements Current Windows builds also fix visual glitches with the automatically hidden taskbar, the unexpected rebuilding of desktop icons, and display issues with Windows security login windows. File Explorer adjustments improve accessibility, allow custom folder names, and add tooltips to favorites. A fix addresses application hangs during file operations with OneDrive and Dropbox, as well as problems with Outlook configurations that store PST files in OneDrive. Voice Access extends language support to include the Netherlands.