Microsoft might be getting ready to name its next big operating system update as “Windows 11 2022 Update”. References to this designation have appeared in near-final builds of the next major release of Windows 11, currently called 22H2. Twitter user XenoPanther spotted the name of the Windows 11 2022 update in the Get Started app that appears when you set up a new PC.
The naming could simply be a placeholder, or it could indicate that Microsoft is finally simplifying its often confusing update names for Windows. We’ve seen a variety of names over the years, including the Creators Update moniker for a major Windows 10 update, more mundane names like the Windows 10 May 2021 Update, and most recently the Windows 10 moniker 21H2.
Microsoft had considered naming its updates after animals or people, but moved to the safer monthly naming instead of one-off releases like Apple does with iOS, iPadOS, watchOS and many other software updates. Moving to just naming Windows 11 updates annually would make sense if Microsoft plans smaller feature downloads.
A recent report suggested that Microsoft has scrapped plans for an annual “23H2” update for Windows 11 in 2023, instead prioritizing the rollout of new features throughout the year. Microsoft has changed its Windows Insider program recently, adding more experiments and prototype features that are tested well in advance. These changes could see Microsoft return to a three-year release cycle for Windows, with a new major release (Windows 12?) coming in 2024.
I would still prefer to see Microsoft move to Windows 11.1 or 11.2 with their major updates. It’s easier to determine what the latest update is and understand if your PC or laptop is up to date or if you’re waiting for Microsoft or your OEM to approve the latest bits.
Either way, Microsoft’s next big Windows 11 update is coming on September 20, a week after the company’s usual Patch Tuesday fixes. Windows 11 22H2, or it could be the Windows 11 2022 update, will include a number of new improvements, including app folders on the Start menu, drag and drop on the taskbar, and new touch gestures and animations.