Microsoft has been working on the next version of Windows 11 for a long time, and some of its features and changes have been leaked or announced earlier. However, the company has now shared some official details about the upcoming update, including its release timeframe and system requirements.
The update, codenamed 23H2, will be a minor one over the current version 22H2, and will be delivered via a small enablement package (eKB) or a cumulative update (C.U.). This means that users will not have to download a large ISO file or perform a full installation to get the new version.
The advantage of this approach is that Windows 11 23H2 will share the same servicing branch and code base as Windows 11 22H2, which means the system requirements will remain unchanged and there will be no compatibility issues between the versions. Users who are already running Windows 11 22H2 will be able to upgrade to 23H2 seamlessly and without any loss of data or settings.
“The upcoming Windows 11, version 23H2 shares the same servicing branch and code base as Windows 11, version 22H2. What does it mean for you? If you're running Windows 11, version 22H2, it will be a simple update to version 23H2 via a small enablement package (eKB). Do you remember updating from Windows 10, version 1903 to 1909? Or how you've managed recent updates beginning with Windows 10, version 20H2 through 22H2? It will be that simple. Moreover, since both versions share the same source code, you don't need to worry about application or device compatibility between the versions.”
Windows 11 23H2 Coming Q4 2023
Microsoft has also revealed that Windows 11 23H2 will be available in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2023, which is in line with the company's usual release cycle for Windows updates. Users will be able to deploy the update via Windows Server Update Services, Windows Update for Business, or Windows Autopatch, depending on their preferences and needs.
In addition to Windows 11 23H2, Microsoft will also begin offering Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 through Volume Licensing starting August 1st. This is a special edition of Windows 10 designed for embedded devices that require long-term support and stability.
