When Windows 11 was launched by Microsoft at the end of 2021, the company shared its plan to roll out one major feature update annually for the operating system and extend the support lifespan of each version.
Before that, Microsoft used to release two feature updates per year for Windows 10, with the last three updates being minor feature enhancements only.
Going forward, both Windows 11 and Windows 10 will each receive one feature update per year starting in 2022. Microsoft stated that the Windows 11 2022 feature update will be launched in the second half of the year without specifying a specific release date.
Windows Central has hinted that the initial Windows 11 feature update might come earlier than expected. According to the blog, Windows 11 version 22H2 is set to be finalized in May 2022, with the final release scheduled for Summer 2022.
Summer 2022 in the Northern Hemisphere spans from June 21 to September 23. A release towards the latter part of this timeframe, possibly in September, seems plausible as it would mark just 11 months since the official introduction of Windows 11.
However, it’s worth noting that Windows Central did not disclose the source of this information, so it should be treated as a rumor for now.
The upcoming feature update, codenamed Sun Valley 2, will bring new functionalities to Windows 11, such as supporting Android applications by integrating the Windows Subsystem for Android. Other enhancements include updated applications and overall system refinements, addressing concerns from users who felt that Microsoft rushed the initial release.
As of now, Windows 11 is gradually rolling out to compatible devices. The next feature update will be provided to devices deemed as offering the best upgrade experience according to Telemetry data. Rollouts typically occur over weeks or months, with Microsoft aiming to offer the free upgrade to all eligible devices by mid-2022, potentially a shorter rollout period for the 2022 feature update.
Furthermore, there may be an option to set the default browser again in the upcoming feature update.
Reflection on Windows 11
Windows 11 is currently facing some known issues, with Microsoft receiving criticism primarily for removing functionalities that were present in earlier Windows versions, including Windows 10. Many of the top requested features for Windows 11 involve reinstating functionalities that were removed.
Some of the noted issues include challenges in changing default programs, performance issues with AMD devices, a taskbar with reduced capabilities, and usability concerns with the redesigned File Explorer.
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