Announcing the Annual Release Cadence for Microsoft Configuration Manager

Starting with version 2609, Microsoft Configuration Manager will transition to an annual release cadence. This change is a formalization of the direction we’ve communicated at events and in customer conversations. Microsoft Intune is the future of device management, and all new innovations will occur there. Configuration Manager will continue to serve your on-premises devices, with a renewed focus on security, stability, and long-term support.

Why Move to an Annual Release Cadence?

Historically, Configuration Manager followed a semi-annual release schedule. As the industry shifts toward cloud-native management, we’re aligning our release cycle to better support your long-term planning and operational stability. This annual cadence allows IT teams to:

• Plan upgrades with confidence - knowing when to expect new releases.
• Focus on stability and security - with each release prioritizing reliability over new features.
• Transition at your own pace - while Microsoft Intune receives all future investments and innovations.

What Does This Mean for You?

Here’s what you can expect from upcoming releases:

• 2509 (December 2025): Stability and quality updates, including ARM64 support.
• 2603 (March 2026): Enhanced security aligned with the Microsoft Secure Future Initiative
• 2609 (September 2026): The first annual release under the new cadence.
• 2709 (September 2027): Future-focused release (details to be determined).

Focus on Security and Stability

Annual releases will align with the Windows client security and stability cadence (H2). Our top priority is to maintain a secure, reliable Configuration Manager experience. This means:

• Applying critical updates and patches as needed.
• Providing hotfix rollups only when absolutely necessary (e.g., for critical security or functionality issues).
• Continuing to support existing environments, with advance notice for any feature deprecations.

Support Lifecycle

The support lifecycle remains unchanged; each version receives 18 months of support from its release date. Here’s a quick reference:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this a new direction for Configuration Manager?

A: No. While we’ve discussed this shift publicly for some time, this is the first time we’re formally documenting it. The only “new” aspect is the official annual cadence and the clarity it brings to your planning.

Q: Will there be hotfixes or out-of-band updates?

A: Only if absolutely necessary - such as for critical security or functionality issues. Otherwise, updates will be bundled into the annual release.

Q: What about support for existing environments?

A: We remain committed to supporting your Configuration Manager environments. Any changes or deprecations will be communicated well in advance.

Looking Ahead

This annual release cadence is designed to give you predictability, stability, and the confidence to plan for the future. As you consider your long-term device management strategy, remember that Microsoft Intune is where all new innovation happens.

Whether you’re getting started with Intune or currently using Configuration Manager, Microsoft provides clear guidance to help you modernize at your own pace. Explore the Intune deployment guide to set up or move to Intune, and see the section on using Configuration Manager for co-management or a phased transition.

We’re here to support your journey - wherever you are on the path to cloud-native Windows.

If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out on X @MSConfigMgrTeam