Windows 11 August Update 2025 & Version 25H2: These features will be removed

Microsoft removes outdated features with Windows 11 version 25H2 (August 2025 Update)With the August Update 2025 and the coming Feature update Windows 11 version 25H2 (25H2) Microsoft is continuing to modernize the system. In addition to security-related changes, outdated tools removed and new app management policy introduced – especially for enterprise and education devices.

 

 

These components will be removed with Windows 11 version 25H2

PowerShell 2.0

  • PowerShell 2.0 will be completely removed from Windows 11, starting with the August 2025 Update (24H2) and continuing into 25H2.
  • Microsoft recommends using PowerShell 5.1 or more modern alternatives such as PowerShell 7.x.
  • Scripts or programs that explicitly call version 2 (powershell.exe -Version 2) need to be revised.

WMIC (Windows Management Instrumentation Command Line)

  • The WMIC command line tool is now officially removed.
  • Alternatives are modern PowerShell cmdlets such as Get-CimInstance, Invoke-CimMethod or direct use of CIM/WMI APIs.

Windows Mixed Reality

  • Windows Mixed Reality, including related services like SteamVR Beta, is no longer supported.
  • The components were already removed from the standard installation with Windows 11 version 24H2 and are no longer available in 25H2.
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Other deprecated functions 
(not yet removed, but announced)

These features are considered deprecated and may be removed in future versions of Windows:

  • VBScript (Classic Scripting Technology)
  • TLS 1.0 and 1.1 (planned to be disabled by default)
  • Legacy SMBv1 components (disabled on new installations)
  • WordPad (already announced for removal in a future version)

Windows 11 Version 25H2: Another cleanup and optimization update from Microsoft

New option in 25H2: Remove pre-installed Microsoft Store apps

With Windows 11 version 25H2, Microsoft is integrating a new group policy called:
“Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages from the system”.

 

What does the directive achieve?

  • Allows the targeted removal or non-installation of pre-installed apps for new user profiles.
  • Administration via Group Policy (GPO) or MDM CSP – specifically for Enterprise and Education editions.

 

Which apps can be removed?

Amongst other things:

  • Feedback Hub
  • Microsoft Clipchamp
  • Microsoft News
  • Microsoft Pictures
  • Solitaire Collection
  • Sticky Notes
  • teams
  • To Do
  • Outlook for Windows
  • Paint
  • Snipping Tool
  • Windows Camera
  • media Player
  • Calculator

Note for private users

This policy does not officially exist for Home and Pro versions. However, some options are available via third-party tools such as PolicyPlus accessible – without official support from Microsoft.

 

Technical background: What does Enablement Package (eKB) mean?

  • Windows 11 version 25H2 is known as Enablement Package delivered.
  • The functionalities are already in version 24H2, but are deactivated and will be enabled by the update.
  • The underlying code remains almost identical, allowing for smooth activation through a reboot.

 

Timeframe & Impact

  • The removal of PowerShell 2.0 starts with Windows 11 version 24H2 in August 2025.
  • For Windows Server The change will take place from September 2025.
  • 25H2 brings more configuration freedom for enterprise devices, but also requires preparation.

 

Conclusion

25H2 makes Windows cleaner – but requires preparation

Windows 11 version 25H2 is more than just an incremental update – it marks the Farewell to outdated technologies such as PowerShell 2.0, WMIC and Mixed Reality. At the same time, new guidelines create ways Systems streamlined and more controlled to install – especially in the corporate environment.

Don't panic: The update is technically unspectacular

  • 25H2 is an enablement package, meaning the foundation remains the same as in 24H2. There's no risk of massive bugs or compatibility issues in everyday use.

  • Most functions are not visibly changed – many improvements affect admins or company policies.

Suggestion:

Companies and private power users should:

  • Review existing scripts and automations
  • Prepare for app removal via GPO/MDM
  • Test the system environment early for compatibility with 25H2

 

FAQs about Windows 11 version 25H2

What is an enablement package?
A small activation update that unlocks features already included in the system.

Is 25H2 a “major update”?
Not in the traditional sense – it is based on version 24H2 and does not bring revolutionary changes, but rather structural improvements.

Which versions will receive the new app policy?
Only Enterprise and EducationsPrivate users do not have official access.

When will 25H2 be officially released?
The final rollout will in October or November 2025 expected.

  mh (13.09.2025/XNUMX/XNUMX) 

 See also: 

Windows 11 26H1 and Snapdragon X2: The future of mobile laptops

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