Microsoft has officially released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26052 to both the Canary and Dev Channels. This release marks the first official build from the 26H1 development branch, a new designation in the operating system’s release history.

In its announcement, the company stated that with this build, it is “beginning to test new experiences for specific silicon.” While Microsoft did not detail the hardware, industry reports have linked this reference to the next generation of Arm-powered PCs, including devices expected to feature processors like Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite.

A New Naming Convention Emerges

The introduction of a “26H1” development branch is a first for Windows 11. This naming convention, indicating a release targeted for the first half of a year, deviates from the previous pattern of single annual feature updates. This build is distinct from the primary annual feature update planned for the general public.

Clarification on the 24H2 Annual Update

Alongside the 26H1 announcement, Microsoft also confirmed that Windows 11, version 24H2, is slated to be this year’s annual feature update. Reports indicate that while 24H2 will be a feature release for existing PCs, the 26H1 branch is being developed in preparation for new Arm-based hardware.