Microsoft announced today that the next Windows 11, version 23H2 will be available in Q4 2023 as an activation package, as it shares the Windows 11 22H2 codebase and servicing branch.

23H2 fixes and improvements will be applied to all systems running Windows 11 22H2 via a monthly quality update before the next version is released.

The activation package will act as a “master switch” that will activate inactive 23H2 features and upgrade the Windows version and build number.

“Do you remember updating from Windows 10, version 1903 to 1909? Or how did you deal with recent updates from Windows 10, version 20H2 to 22H2? It will be as simple as that,” said said Jason Leznek, Windows Maintenance and Delivery Manager.

“Plus, since both releases share the same source code, you don’t have to worry about app or device compatibility between releases.”

Leznek advises all users to upgrade to Windows 11 22H2 before releasing the 23H2 feature update.

This ensures a faster upgrade process and less downtime, as previous versions will not receive the activation package through Windows Update and manual installation is not possible.

After upgrading to Windows 11 22H2, you can deploy the 23H2 activation package through Windows Server Update Services, Windows Update for Business, or Windows Autopatch.

“The eKB is not available on the Volume Licensing Service Center. Media packages contain the full Windows 11 operating system,” Leznek added.

What’s new in Windows 11 23H2

Even though Microsoft hasn’t yet released an official list of all the new features that will ship with the next version of Windows 11, we already have an idea of ​​what Redmond will add to Windows 11 23H2 based on the features tested in the builds. Insider.

The list of new features that the 23H2 enablement package will likely enable include:

However, although Windows 11 23H2 should ship with these features, there is no guarantee that they will all be ready in time.