Windows news you can use: September 2026

As September draws to a close, a significant milestone has been reached: Windows 11, version 26H2 is now officially available to everyone. If you’re eager to get started, have a look at how to download the update. Additionally, you can explore the specifics about updating via the enablement package, the support life cycle, features that are now enabled by default, and tools for adoption. Let’s delve into some of these resources and other updates from the Windows ecosystem.

• [26H2] – Exciting new tools and resources are now at your disposal to help you assess and deploy Windows 11, version 26H2 effectively:

• [BACKUP] – With Windows 11, version 26H2, Windows settings backup is enabled by default for compatible devices. Existing administrator-configured policies will still be respected, whether they’re set to enabled or disabled.

• [W365] [PROVISIONING] – Users can now independently initiate provisioning for Windows 365 Reserve, allowing eligible individuals to set up their own Reserve Cloud PC.

• [AUTOPILOT] – New guidance is available to help you transition from Windows Autopilot to Windows Autopilot device preparation. This guidance will assist in planning while considering your current deployment configurations. If you missed out, you can now link a Windows 11 device to your organisation even before enrolment. This helps you target device-specific policies and configure parts of the out-of-box experience before the user signs in.

• [AUTOPATCH] – From October 15 onwards, Windows Autopatch will grant you more precise control over Windows quality updates. You can approve monthly security, non-security, and out-of-band updates either automatically or manually. Manage supported .NET Framework updates and Quick machine recovery through quality update policies. New reporting features also allow you to monitor update approvals, installation progress, and deployment status seamlessly.

• [INTUNE] [APPS] [POLICIES] – Public preview is now available for Microsoft Intune deployments, which enables you to gradually rollout apps and device configuration policies to Windows devices using specified deployment rings.

• [PODCAST] – Don’t miss out on our new monthly podcast! You’ll get a concise overview of the latest in Windows management each month, broadcast live on the last Monday. Tune in to learn how these new capabilities can benefit your organisation and find out how to implement them right away.

• [VIRTUALIZATION] – The Azure Virtual Desktop Hybrid is officially available! This allows you to run session hosts on your existing on-premises infrastructure while managing everything through Azure Virtual Desktop.

• [ACTIVATION] – Are you using VBScript, particularly slmgr.vbs, for automatic Windows activation? Discover how to maintain this automation using PowerShell.

For the latest with security on the Microsoft platform, check out What’s new in Microsoft Security: September 2026.

To keep up with the latest features and enhancements for Windows Server, check the Windows Server 2025 release notes and Windows Server 2022 release notes.

Make sure to install the September 2026 security update for Windows 11, versions 25H2 and 24H2 to enjoy these new features, which will be rolled out gradually:

• [FILE EXPLORER] – The Recommended section now supports touch scrolling, making it easier to browse through files in the carousel.

• [START] – You now have the option to choose between a small or large Start menu, alongside the current default choice. We’ve also revised Start menu settings, allowing you to independently display or hide Pinned, Recommended, and All sections.

• [TASKBAR] – You can customise the taskbar’s position on your screen, selecting from the bottom, top, left, or right. There’s also a smaller taskbar option to help maximise screen space, especially useful on compact devices.

• [SEARCH] – Search functionality has improved! It now clearly indicates where results come from—whether it’s an app, setting, file, web result, or Store suggestion. A new setting lets you choose whether web and Microsoft Store suggestions show up alongside local results. Plus, Windows will automatically index your most-used folders to ensure they appear in future searches.

• [UI] – We’ve updated progress indicators across Windows to deliver a more consistent and modern experience during startup, sign-in, restart, shutdown, and updates.

The October 2026 security update will bring even more new features and upgrades. You can preview what’s coming by installing the September 2026 optional non-security update for versions 26H2, 25H2, and 24H2. This update features gradual rollouts of:

• [FILE EXPLORER] – File Explorer Home will save the state of sections (expanded or collapsed), so you can resume where you left off. The preview pane will also now allow you to preview PDFs that you’ve downloaded directly from the web.

• [BLUETOOTH] – Improved Bluetooth reliability and audio performance means greater accuracy in connection and volume status, better microphone compatibility, and enhanced stability with LE Audio and shared audio accessories.

• [ACCESSIBILITY] – A new setting allows apps to open maximised automatically, enhancing user experience, particularly for those using screen readers or working in tablet mode.

• [TOUCHPADS] – Gesture controls for touchpads now support single-finger scrolling and automatic scrolling.

• [KEYBOARD] – This update introduces a Windows 11 setting that allows you to remap the Copilot key to act as the Right Ctrl or Context Menu key, helping to maintain familiar shortcuts and accessibility workflows.

For insights on upcoming productivity, security, and reliability updates for Windows 11, take a look at the Windows Roadmap.

• [W11] [24H2] – Mark your calendars for October 13, 2026, when Windows 11, version 24H2 Home and Pro will no longer receive updates. After this date, devices using these editions won’t receive any new security or non-security preview updates that address recent security threats. However, Enterprise and Education editions will continue to be supported until October 12, 2027.

• [W11] [24H2] – The September 2026 non-security preview update marks the final preview update for Windows 11, version 24H2. Supported editions of version 24H2 will still receive monthly security updates as per their servicing lifecycle. If you depend on preview releases, we suggest that you upgrade to a newer version of Windows 11 to keep receiving these updates.

• [W10] [LTSB] [LTSC] – October 13, 2026, marks the deadline for extended support on Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 will lose support (EOS) on January 12, 2027. We advise transitioning to the latest LTSC release, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024. If you need more time to transition, consider options for Extended Security Update (ESU) for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021.

• [SERVER] [2022] – October 13, 2026, will also see Windows Server 2022 reach the end of mainstream support. Post this date, the server version will move to extended support, continuing to receive security updates at no extra charge until October 14, 2031. More details can be found on the Windows Server 2022 lifecycle page.

For the latest information on deprecated features in the Windows client and Windows Server 2025, check our lifecycle documentation regularly.

Want to be one of the first to hear about what’s next? Register now for Microsoft Ignite, happening November 17-20. In-person passes are still available for an immersive conference experience in San Francisco, and there’s free digital access available as well. Don’t forget to browse the catalogue of Windows sessions and save your favourites!

If you’re seeking the latest news and previews for Windows, Copilot, Copilot+ PCs, or the Windows and Windows Server Insider Programs, you’ll find more information through the resources below:

If there are areas or topics you feel this update has overlooked, please let us know in the Comments. We really appreciate your feedback on what you would like to see included!

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