Huge Windows 11 update is finally done, but release date remains a mystery

Windows 11
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The first major update to Windows 11 (allegedly called Sun Valley 2) is finally done Microsoft confirms but stops short of saying when it will be available to download.

In a community post, the company states that 'Minimum acceptable build for Windows 11, version 22H2 certification is RTM build(i.e. 22621)', which was released for Windows Insiders on May 11.

However, there are more clues to Sun Valley 2's release with another note stating, 'Windows 11, version 22H2 based systems may ship with drivers that have achieved compatibility with Windows 11, version 21H2 until Sept 5th, 2022.'


Analysis: Marking the one year anniversary

Microsoft has been making several announcements across 2022 of what should be coming to Windows 11, such as tabs in File Explorer and more, but it has stayed silent on confirming when they would arrive.

It's a risky approach, as users could see this as a carrot on a stick  – showcasing what they can do with their PC, but no idea of when these alluring features will be available.

This 'anniversary update' could bring all of these improvements at once in October, almost mirroring Apple's yearly release approach to its software. With WWDC over a week away, where macOS 13 is expected to be announced, Windows 11 could see itself being overshadowed by what's coming to Mac's operating system.

Regardless, with confirmation that Sun Valley 2 is finally done, we're ready to look towards a Sun Valley 3 update, or maybe even Windows 12.

Daryl Baxter
Contributor

Daryl is a freelance writer and author of two books—The Making of Tomb Raider and 50 Years of Boss Fights. A third book, the follow up to ‘Tomb Raider’, comes out in 2026. Having worked at TechRadar previously as a software writer from 2021 to 2023, Daryl understands how software can benefit users, as well as having an interest in how accessibility features can benefit others.

With over a decade of experience, his work has been featured in Tom’s Guide, SUPERJUMP, Pocket Tactics, Radio Times, The Escapist, and more.