Microsoft may very well be getting ready to call its subsequent massive OS replace because the “Windows 11 2022 Update.” References to this naming have appeared in near-final variations of the following massive Windows 11 launch, at present named 22H2. Twitter consumer XenoPanther noticed the Windows 11 2022 Update naming within the Get Started app that seems if you setup a brand new PC.

The naming may merely be a placeholder, or it may point out Microsoft is lastly simplifying its usually complicated replace names for Windows. We’ve seen a wide range of names over time, together with the Creators Update naming for an enormous Windows 10 replace, extra mundane naming just like the Windows 10 May 2021 Update, and extra not too long ago the Windows 10 21H2 moniker.

Microsoft had thought-about naming its updates after animals or individuals, however transitioned to the extra secure month-to-month naming as an alternative of level releases like Apple does with iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and lots of different software program updates. A transfer to only the yearly naming for Windows 11 updates would make sense if Microsoft is planning much less massive drops of options.

A current report instructed Microsoft has scrapped plans for a “23H2” annual replace for Windows 11 in 2023, shifting to prioritize rolling out new options all year long as an alternative. Microsoft has modified its Windows Insider program not too long ago, including extra experiments and prototype options which are examined far upfront. These adjustments may result in Microsoft shifting again to a three-year launch cycle for Windows, with a brand new main model (Windows 12?) due in 2024.

I might nonetheless desire to see Microsoft transfer to Windows 11.1 or 11.2 with its main updates. It’s simpler to find out what the most recent replace is, and to know in case your PC or laptop computer is updated otherwise you’re ready on Microsoft or your OEM to approve the most recent bits.

Either manner, Microsoft’s subsequent massive Windows 11 replace is due on September twentieth, every week after the corporate’s common Patch Tuesday fixes. Windows 11 22H2 — or may or not it’s Windows 11 2022 Update — will embrace a lot of new enhancements like app folders within the Start menu, drag and drop on the taskbar, and new contact gestures and animations.