Microsoft’s next major Windows release is still Windows 11

Microsoft began planning a return to a three-year Windows release cycle in 2022, with a major release expected in 2024. Many observers thought that release would be Windows 12, but Microsoft instead delivered a major Windows 11 update. With the next three-year milestone approaching, the company appears set to continue improving Windows 11 rather than package those changes as a new operating system.

Sources say Microsoft is preparing Windows 11 version 27H2 for 2027. Like the 24H2 release in 2024, it is expected to involve a full OS swap, replacing or upgrading major parts of the operating system. By contrast, the 25H2 and 26H2 releases were enablement packages: they gradually activated features delivered through monthly cumulative updates.

The larger scope of 27H2 will require more testing of the features and changes planned for next year. Microsoft’s work this year has focused on underlying performance improvements after the company acknowledged Windows 11’s bloat and reliability issues. The company has also made quality a priority for the upcoming release, according to sources.