Microsoft ships Windows 11 26H2 as stable update, sets Oct 7 event
Windows 11 version 26H2 arrives as a low-disruption release and is the last supported Windows build for Qualcomm's Snapdragon 850 SoC.
Microsoft has released Windows 11 version 26H2 as a stable, generally available update, according to windowscentral.com. Microsoft described the release as a predictable and low-disruption update.
The company also announced a Windows and Surface event for October 7, which it says will look at what's next from Windows, Surface, and Nvidia.
Windows 11 version 26H2 is the last officially supported version of Windows for the Snapdragon 850 SoC, marking the end of the road for that Qualcomm platform on Microsoft's support list.
Snapdragon X2 leads new tests
Separately, new tests show Qualcomm's 18-core Snapdragon X2 outperforming Intel's mainstream laptop chips across CPU, AI, battery life, and price. Devices named in connection with the platform include the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x, Samsung Galaxy Book6, and Dell 14S.
Last week Microsoft announced refreshes to the Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch. In 2026 the company had to release multiple out-of-band updates for Windows 11, with some bugs requiring multiple patches. Windows 11 version 26H1 and 26H2 are built on different Windows codebases, and Microsoft plans to unify on version 27H2 in 2027.
Quick answers
When is Microsoft's Windows and Surface event?
Microsoft is holding the event on October 7, described as a look at what's next from Windows, Surface, and Nvidia.
What is new in Windows 11 version 26H2?
Microsoft describes version 26H2 as a predictable and low-disruption update. It is also the last officially supported version of Windows for the Snapdragon 850 SoC.
How does the Snapdragon X2 compare to Intel's laptop chips?
New tests show Qualcomm's 18-core Snapdragon X2 outperforming Intel's mainstream laptop chips across CPU, AI, battery life, and price.