14 DAY TRIAL // Now that the rollout of Windows 11 2022 Update is gaining pace, Microsoft has also decided to release new virtual machines that would allow developers to try out the operating system in a controlled environment.
The Windows 11 version 22H2 virtual machines are available for download right now, and always, they can be used free of charge for a limited time.
As noted by Neowin, the Windows 11 2022 Update virtual machines come with no cost if you use them until January 10, 2023, at which point they will start asking for a product key. A Windows 11 license will therefore be required, just like in the case of a full operating system installation.
The Windows 11 2022 Update rollout
In the meantime, Microsoft continues the rollout of Windows 11 version 22H2 to eligible devices, with the whole process taking place in stages, as per the company’s typical approach.
Microsoft’s latest update is dated October 4, when the company revealed that the rollout gained more pace.
“We are entering a new phase of the rollout for Windows 11, version 22H2 and we are increasing its availability to all who check for updates on eligible Windows devices. Note that, if we detect that your device might have an issue, such as an application incompatibility, we might put a safeguard hold in place and not offer the update until that issue is resolved. Information regarding safeguard holds is available below on this page,” Microsoft said in early October.
At this point, there’s no ETA as to when the 2022 Update is supposed to reach the broad availability phase, but expect more information on this front in the coming months. Given a new Moment update is likely to go live in the spring, the rollout of the 2022 Update should be complete in the first months of 2023.