Windows 10: Windows 11 26H1 Arrives (But Only for Next-Gen ARM PCs)

Microsoft has officially announced Windows 11 version 26H1, but this isn’t an update you’ll see in Windows Update on your current PC.

Instead, the 26H1 release is reserved for new devices launching with next-generation ARM processors, starting with systems powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 series.

If you’re running Windows 11 today, nothing changes, and Microsoft says there’s no reason to delay purchases or deployments.

What Is Windows 11 26H1?


According to Microsoft, version 26H1 is built on a new platform release aimed at supporting upcoming ARM hardware innovations.

Unlike typical Windows feature updates:

• It is not a standard upgrade from Windows 11 25H2
• It will not roll out broadly via Windows Update
• It is pre-installed only on select new hardware

Microsoft confirmed that devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 processors will ship with Windows 11 26H1 out of the box.

Why 26H1 Release Exists?


Windows 11 normally follows an annual feature update cadence. Microsoft reiterated that this approach remains unchanged, meaning:

• Windows 11 26H2 is still expected later this year
• 26H1 does not replace the standard fall update cycle

Instead, 26H1 acts as a platform-specific branch optimized for new ARM silicon.

Microsoft says it worked closely with OEMs and hardware partners to prepare this release, enabling support for upcoming device innovations.

No New Windows 11 26H1 Features, But Likely Performance Gains


Windows 11 26H1 does not introduce exclusive features.

Microsoft says changes will be shared across platform releases. However, systems running 26H1 may benefit from:

• Improved performance on ARM
• Better battery efficiency
• Enhanced hardware-level optimizations

In short, the improvements are under-the-hood rather than user-facing.

Microsoft’s FAQ makes it clear:

• 26H1 is not a feature update for 25H2
• Existing enterprise rollout plans remain unchanged
• Organizations should continue deploying broadly released versions like 24H2 and 25H2

There’s no need to pause device purchases or modify IT strategies.

For most users, the real achievement to watch is Windows 11 26H2, which is expected later in 2026. Microsoft hasn’t confirmed a fall release window yet, but it suggests one is likely.

Meanwhile, Windows 11 26H1 signals Microsoft’s continued push into ARM-powered PCs, especially as Snapdragon X2 devices approach launch.

Your PC won't be updated to Windows 11 26H1


Windows 11 26H1 will only be available on new PCs with next-generation ARM processors Snapdragon X2 series. There is no direct upgrade path for existing devices running Windows 11 25H2 or earlier versions.

Windows 11 26H1 is a strategic move - laying groundwork for the next wave of ARM-based Windows hardware.

If you’re buying a next-gen Snapdragon X2 PC later this year, you’ll likely be running 26H1. Everyone else will be waiting for 26H2.

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Windows 11 26H1 Arrives (But Only for Next-Gen ARM PCs) appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

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ARM-based PC (Windows 11) keeps running into ERROR CODE 0x0000034.

Hello, my Samsung Book GO (LTE) suddenly ran into the ERROR CODE 0x0000034 when it was updating. I already created a Windows 11 Installation Media USB tool and also prioritized it in boot. The usual installation screen is not showing up, and instead it's going directly to the log in screen. I am able to use the computer, but not without the USB tool. Without it, the same error (0x0000034) occurs.

It's running with the specs listed below. I am unsure of the methods because it is an ARM-based PC.

Processor / Chipset

• Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 (Kryo™ 468 Octa-core CPU, up to 2.55 GHz)
  

Memory

• 4 GB LPDDR4x Memory (On BD 4 GB)
  

Storage

• 128 GB eUFS
  

I would appreciate any advice. Thank you so much.

 

Activation error 0xc004f050 on ARM

>With respect, I don’t think that is true.

Windows 11 ARM preview intended only for evaluation purposes.

Quote from Windows 11 ARM Preview download page:

ARM64 VMs are only supported on devices that meet the pre-requisites:

• Windows 11 ARM-based PCs with a Microsoft SQ1, Microsoft SQ2, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx, or Qualcomm Snapdragon 850 processor
  

Microsoft do not provide any support for unofficial usage.

 

Why can i5 4th gen PC be installled in Windows 11?

Windows processor requirements Windows 11 supported Intel processors

Based on the Microsoft list, it didn't show i5 4th gen processor.

Any idea why i can install Windows 11 on the PC?