It’s upgrade time for Windows users.
Updated on Dec. 7 with news that Microsoft is now using machine learning to decide which PCs should be upgraded, and then auto-downloading the update.
December has only just started, and Microsoft is already busy with the latest set of broken Windows reports, the hangover from the end of Windows 10 and the slow uptake for its replacement. Now the Windows-maker is taking action.
The news that as many as 500 million users may have PCs eligible for Windows 11 but are choosing not to upgrade was a major surprise. Now Microsoft is giving all those PC owners – plus Windows 11 users without the latest updates – a push.
Per Neowin, Microsoft has confirmed that it is now allowing all supported systems download and install Windows 11 25H2. Weather you are on Windows 11 or Windows 10, users can opt to upgrade to the 2025 feature update provided thay have a system that meets the system requirements of Windows 11.”
This despite ongoing issues.
Windows 11 25H2 Update: Installation issues, Dark Mode Bug, and Automatic Rollout
The latest Windows 11 update, version 25H2, is facing some initial hurdles. Reports indicate potential installation failures (error code 0x80070306), a bug breaking dark mode in File Explorer, and driver issues for intel Arc GPUs. Additionally, Microsoft is employing a machine learning-based approach to automatically roll out the update to some PCs.
According to The Verge, the update can fail to install due to errors like 0x80070306. tho, even when triumphant, users have reported that the update breaks dark mode functionality within file Explorer and causes compatibility problems with Intel Arc GPU drivers.
Neowin notes that these issues primarily affect enterprise systems, but personal computers are also susceptible. Microsoft acknowledges the problems and states it is “working on a resolution,” though a specific timeline for a fix remains unknown. Enterprise users should contact their IT support, while home users will need to wait for standard patch releases.
Users can manually check for the update by navigating to settings > Windows Update and selecting “Check for updates.” The update will only be offered to eligible PCs.
Beyond these initial issues, Microsoft is also implementing an automatic rollout strategy for Windows 11 25H2. Windows Latest reports that Microsoft will automatically download the update in the background for devices running Windows 11, versions 24H2 Home and Pro, that are not managed by IT departments.
This rollout utilizes a “machine learning-based intelligent rollout,” meaning Windows Update will silently download version 25H2, allowing users to choose whether to install it immediately or postpone the installation. This differs from a standard download, where users actively initiate the process.
Sources:
* the Verge: Windows 11’s 2025 update has some issues
* Neowin: Windows 11 25H2 is rolling out, but has some known issues