Windows 11 26H2 Hits Release Preview with Movable Taskbar and More

Microsoft has released Windows 11 26H2 into the Release Preview Channel and included the August Preview Update. This update shares the same servicing branch as Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, which means it will have many of the same tweaks and updates already seen in monthly Windows updates.

The latest features include a movable taskbar, more Start Menu customization, and the ability to remove web and Microsoft Store suggestions from local results in Windows Search. These changes were previously released as part of the August Preview Update via an enablement package, which is a small piece of code that switches on dormant functionality.

One of the key reasons for releasing 26H2 is to reset the support clock for various editions of Windows 11. For example, Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 24H2 will lose support on October 13, 2026. Windows 11 26H2 provides 24 months of support for these versions and 36 months for Enterprise and Education editions.

Despite sharing a codebase with previous updates, Microsoft still recommends testing 26H2 to confirm compatibility with apps, policies, and infrastructure.