Microsoft’s Windows 11 2024 Update, also known as version 24H2, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the operating system. Launched on October 1, 2024, this update introduces a range of features and enhancements designed to improve user experience, performance, and connectivity.
This article dissects all the key components of the update, providing an in-depth look at everything included in this major release.
User interface enhancements
One of the most noticeable changes in Windows 11 2024 is the overhaul of the user interface. The Start Menu has been upgraded to include a side panel that integrates with Microsoft’s Phone Link software.
This feature displays notifications and battery levels from connected smartphones, along with quick access to messages, calls, and photos. This floating panel is particularly beneficial for users who rely on their mobile devices while working on their PCs, streamlining multitasking and enhancing productivity.
File explorer improvements
The File Explorer has also undergone significant updates. The home section has been redesigned to combine favorites and shared items into a more user-friendly layout. Context menus throughout File Explorer have been enlarged, making common actions like copy, paste, and rename easier to navigate.
Additionally, users can now create 7z and TAR files directly within File Explorer, enhancing its functionality for file management tasks.
Quick settings redesign
The Quick Settings interface has received a complete redesign. Now displaying all actions by default, users can easily drag and drop items for customization. This change simplifies access to essential settings such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and display options.
Furthermore, Microsoft has revamped power management features by introducing a new Energy Saver mode, which reduces energy consumption on both laptops and desktops. This mode not only extends battery life but also minimizes power usage when the device is idle.
AI-powered features
A significant focus of the Windows 11 2024 Update is the integration of AI capabilities. The Recall functionality has been enhanced to allow users to capture screenshots that help retrieve lost web pages or activities through a timeline tool. This feature comes with privacy enhancements such as Windows Hello protection, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure.
Another notable AI feature is the Click-to-Do Overlay, which places an interactive overlay on the desktop. This overlay suggests quick actions related to text or images, allowing users to perform tasks like visual searches or background removal in Paint with ease.
Additionally, Windows Search has been improved to understand natural language queries, making it easier for users to find files without needing to remember exact names.
Multimedia and graphics enhancements
For multimedia enthusiasts, the update introduces Super Resolution in the Photos app. This AI-driven feature upscales low-resolution images to higher quality (up to 4K) quickly and efficiently.
Users with HDR monitors will appreciate the new support for HDR backgrounds, which allows for easy switching of monitor color profiles directly through the Settings menu.
Connectivity improvements
The Windows 11 2024 Update also enhances connectivity options by adding support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio. Wi-Fi 7 enables faster wireless connections while Bluetooth LE Audio improves functionality with hearing aids and other audio devices. These advancements ensure that users can enjoy seamless connectivity across various devices.
System-level changes
In terms of system-level changes, Microsoft has integrated the sudo command, commonly used in Unix-based systems, allowing developers to run elevated commands from a standard console session. This addition is particularly beneficial for testing scripts and executing commands that require administrative privileges without navigating complex menus.
Moreover, several legacy applications have been removed from the OS as part of this update. Applications such as Cortana, Mail, Calendar, and WordPad will no longer be pre-installed. Instead, Microsoft encourages users to adopt modern alternatives that are web-based or integrated into other applications.
Performance enhancements
Performance improvements are another highlight of the Windows 11 2024 Update. Users with AMD desktop CPUs will notice enhanced performance specifically optimized for gaming and other resource-intensive tasks. The update also introduces support for USB80Gbps speeds, significantly improving data transfer rates for compatible devices.
Additionally, Microsoft has implemented safeguards during the rollout process to ensure compatibility before installation. The update will be gradually rolled out to eligible devices running versions 22H2 and 23H2 based on readiness metrics.
Read About: 7 Tips and Tricks to Use Windows 11 Like a Pro
