Windows 11 25H2 Update Now Available
Microsoft has officially released the Windows 11 25H2 update to users, marking another step in the operating system’s evolution. While this isn’t considered a major feature update, it does introduce several refinements over the previous 24H2 version and lays the groundwork for future enhancements.
What’s New in 25H2
The update serves as a foundation for upcoming features, including a redesigned Start Menu with improved application organization and enhanced cross-device integration capabilities. These improvements are expected to provide users with a more seamless computing experience across their Microsoft ecosystem devices.
Known Issues and Solutions
According to recent coverage of the update’s launch, Microsoft has identified several technical issues affecting the 25H2 release. Importantly, these appear to be minor concerns that shouldn’t deter most users from upgrading.
DRM Content Playback Problems
One notable issue involves occasional difficulties playing DRM-protected content, including certain movies and videos. Microsoft has traced this problem to the ‘Enhanced Video Renderer’ component and anticipates releasing a permanent fix by October 2025.
Installation and Tool Limitations
- The Windows Update Standalone Installer currently has trouble processing .msu files, though this primarily affects enterprise environments
- The Media Creation Tool no longer functions on ARM64 devices, displaying error messages when attempted
- Microsoft confirms the tool doesn’t support creating installation media for ARM64 PCs but works normally for x86 systems
Understanding the Technical Background
These issues aren’t entirely new to the 25H2 update. Since both the 24H2 and 25H2 versions share the same underlying codebase, some persistent problems have carried over from the previous iteration. Microsoft’s development approach means updates build upon existing foundations, which can sometimes perpetuate earlier technical challenges.
How to Get the Update
Users interested in installing the 25H2 update have two primary options:
- Enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option in Windows Update settings
- Download and install the enablement package update files directly
For most users, the identified issues shouldn’t significantly impact daily computer use. Microsoft continues to monitor these technical challenges and will address them through subsequent updates and patches.
