The first major Windows 11 update of this year, version 22H2 aka Sun Valley 2, is expected to bring some much-needed improvements to the operating system. Some references in early code have suggested that Windows 11 version 22H2 RTM is scheduled for sometime in May or June.
According to reliable sources, Windows 10 version 22H2 will reach RTM (release to manufacturing) status within a few days. Some people to believe that RTM could be declared internally on 24 May.
For those uninitiated, the RTM build is a latest build of a particular Windows 11 release, but it’s not the latest revision. In other words, Windows 11 22H2 will reach RTM status in May, but it will continue to receive cumulatively with significant or minor improvements until the public rollout in the fall.
An RTM build is essentially sent to OEMs like Intel and HP to pre-install the new OS version on new devices and to test the update for people already using Windows 11.
RTM is an important step in the release of any Windows feature update and Microsoft currently plans to sign off Windows 11 Build 22621 as the RTM build. However, as our sources have previously confirmed, Microsoft may delay the release of Sun Valley 2 until September or October, even if the RTM build is completed before the end of May.
September-October-November is usually when the tech giant releases its biggest Windows update of the year, but this time it could happen a little early.
Windows 11 22H2 could be a decent update with big improvements
Based on the builds already available to Insiders, we know that Microsoft will not be overhauling the look of Windows 11, but will be redesigning some of its core apps and features, including Task Manager and more.
Task Manager is apparently getting a new look in Windows 11 version 22H2 with WinUI and Fluent Design materials. As part of the visual makeover, Task Manager pages, such as Processes and Performance, are now housed in a new sidebar (hamburger menu) to better support both tablet and desktop users.
This could lead to the biggest visual change Task Manager has seen since Windows 7.
While the wait is disappointing, it’s actually a good thing. Testing the feature update with more people for a few more months will give Microsoft enough time to fix the critical bugs and test driver compatibility.
This process ensures that a feature update is released without breaking devices on the first day of rollout.
If you’re really not worried about potential bugs and want to try the new update sooner, you can sign up for the Windows Insider Program beta channel. Beta Channel gives you early access to upcoming features and updates without causing too much trouble for you.
Please note that Windows 11 Build 22621, which is being considered for RTM, may contain undocumented bugs, so it is better to wait for subsequent cumulative updates if you are unsure of the impact.