It seems like Windows 11 24H2 is gearing up for a wider release, with Microsoft making it available to Release Preview users for further testing. This version brings a host of new features and fixes, making it more stable for broader usage. While it’s currently in preview, its stability suggests that it’s nearing readiness for public release.
The official rollout for users outside the testing program is anticipated to commence later in September, with a broader release expected by the year’s end. The debut of Microsoft’s Copilot Plus PCs, equipped with Windows 11 24H2, is slated for June 18, featuring several new features like Windows 11 Recall. Existing PCs are scheduled to receive the update in September.
Beyond AI features, Windows 11 2024 Update promises numerous other enhancements and modifications.
Sudo for Windows
Sudo is a great way to run commands with elevated privileges without separately opening an elevated Terminal window.
While it is more useful for users who prefer to interact with Windows via Terminal, it is still a welcome change.
Microsoft accidentally added it to Server builds but later removed the feature.
The addition of support for 7zip and TAR formats in Windows 11 24H2 brings greater flexibility to users when compressing files. While the native support for ZIP archives has been a staple feature, the inclusion of these additional formats expands the options available for file compression, catering to users who prefer or require different compression formats for their needs.
Quick Settings Flyout Improvements
There’s a new scroll wheel in the Quick Settings Flyout menu. You can easily scroll down to access more quick settings and don’t need to pin them anymore.
Microsoft has also made Quick Actions faster.
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth Improvements
Microsoft has added support for Wi-Fi 7 and is improving the Bluetooth Low Energy Audio support.
You can check and manage hearing devices with BLE support via the Settings app. It is easy to adjust their settings, check battery levels, and pair them with your PC.
Energy Saver and HDR background support
You can squeeze more battery life with the Energy Saver feature which also has a new Taskbar icon. It will reduce performance to help you make the most of available battery levels.
Applying HDR images as background wallpapers is possible now.
Microsoft is also adding Rust to Windows Kernel and introducing the Voice Clarity feature to improve the audio quality while calling someone. It will curb the ambient noise.
Copilot gets a UI overhaul
The new Copilot app seems to be taking cues from ChatGPT in terms of its user interface design. With features like the Notebook and plugin support, it appears to offer enhanced functionality compared to its predecessor. The ability to undock and move the app around the screen, as well as the option for full-screen mode, provide users with more flexibility in how they interact with Copilot.
Integrating GPT-4o into Copilot will likely enhance its capabilities, especially with multimodal input support. The prospect of using Copilot in games with the new LLM from OpenAI opens up intriguing possibilities for interactive and immersive experiences. Thanks for sharing the tip about accessing the refreshed Copilot design on the web!
Thanks for the clarification. It’s important to note that the Copilot+ features are tied to specific hardware configurations and won’t be available through a software update alone. This distinction ensures that users understand the limitations of their current devices and what to expect from future upgrades.