The Restartless Update: Microsoft Tests Unusual Windows 11 Build That Installs Without a Reboot

Microsoft has released a new test build for the Windows Insider Preview Program—Windows 11 Dev Build 26220.7052 and Windows 11 Beta Build 26220.7052—described as unusual because they can be installed and fully upgraded without requiring a system restart, unlike standard updates. The article notes that these builds carry no officially announced new features or changes.

It also recalls that Microsoft had previously experimented with reboot-free cumulative updates for select enterprise users, which would require up to four reboots a year rather than after every monthly update.

However, the newly released test build does not appear to be directly related to those reboot-free updates, with the company stating it was released “to test the processes of this program.” There are rumours that the Windows 11 Dev Channel will soon test version 26H1 for AI PCs powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 processors, while conventional x86-based PCs are expected to receive a 26H2 update in autumn next year.