What you need to know
- The next big Windows 10 update is moving closer to release.
- The Windows 10 20H2 update is now available for pre-release validation testing with commercial users.
- The 20H2 update is expected to reach a full release this fall.
Microsoft announced this week that the Windows 10 20H2 update, the next major release version, is now available for pre-release validation with commercial PCs. PCs that are managed by IT administrators and aren't running Windows 10 Home Edition can now load the 20H2 update for testing ahead of its release (via Neowin).
From Microsoft:
You can access Windows 10, version 20H2 through all standard outlets, including Windows Update, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), and Azure Marketplace, or you can download an ISO file. If you manage updates directly from Windows Update, or have devices enrolled in the Beta Channel (previously the Slow ring) or the Release Preview Channel for validation purposes, you don't need to take any action. Windows 10, version 20H2 will be automatically deployed to all commercial devices in the Beta and Release Preview Channels and those who have devices on Windows 10, version 2004 will get to experience the remarkably fast update that comes with moving from version 2004 to version 20H2 via an enablement package.
This validation testing is intended to give IT managers a way to easily check things like how quickly the update installs, new management policies, and more.
The 20H2 update is the second major update for 2020, following the launch of Windows 10 version 2004 earlier this year. It's expected to launch this fall and, like the 1909 update last year, is expected to be somewhat small. Microsoft has, however, included some major changes like a revamped Start menu and preinstalled Edge.
You can check out all of the 20H2 changes so far for more.
