Windows 11 version 24H2 is Microsoft’s most ambitious update yet, blending AI-driven features, performance enhancements, and user-centric improvements. Whether you’re a casual user, a creative professional, or a gamer, this update has something for you.
Overview of Microsoft Windows 11 24H2
Released in October 2024, Windows 11 24H2 introduces a plethora of new features and enhancements:
- AI Integration: Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, features like Recall, Click to Do, and AI-enhanced search revolutionise user interaction.
- Performance Boosts: Faster updates, improved File Explorer, and native support for 7z and TAR files streamline daily tasks.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Features like Live Captions and Voice Clarity make the OS more inclusive.
- Gaming Enhancements: Auto HDR, DirectStorage, and AI upscaling elevate the gaming experience.
AI-powered features of Windows 11 24H2 (Copilot+ PCs only)
For devices equipped with Neural Processing Units (NPUs), Windows 11 24H2 unlocks advanced AI capabilities:
1. Recall
Recall captures snapshots of your screen, allowing you to search through your past activities seamlessly. With enhanced privacy controls, data is stored locally and secured via Windows Hello authentication.
2. Click to do
This feature provides contextual actions based on screen content. With a simple click, you can summarize text, edit images, or perform visual searches.
3. AI-enhanced search
Natural language processing allows you to search for files using descriptions rather than exact filenames. For example, typing “photos from last summer’s barbecue” will fetch relevant images.
4. Windows studio effects
Enhance your video calls with features like background blur, eye contact correction, and voice focus, ensuring a professional appearance in virtual meetings.
5. AI in paint and photos
- Generative Fill and Erase: Easily add or remove elements from images.
- Super Resolution: Upscale low-resolution images up to 8x without compromising quality.
- Restyle Image: Transform photos into different artistic styles using AI.
General Improvements of Windows 11 24H2 for All Users
1. File explorer enhancements
File Explorer now natively supports creating 7z and TAR archives. The interface has been refined with labelled context menu options and tabbed views for recent, favourites, and shared files.
2. Start menu updates
A new side panel displays your phone’s battery status, notifications, and recent photos, enhancing the integration between your PC and mobile device.
3. Energy saver mode
Replacing the traditional Battery Saver, this mode extends battery life by managing background activities and reducing power consumption.
4. Wi-Fi 7 and bluetooth LE audio support
Enjoy faster internet speeds and improved audio quality with the latest wireless standards.
5. Sudo command for Windows
Developers can now execute commands with elevated privileges using the familiar sudo command, streamlining workflows.
Gaming enhancements of Microsoft Windows 11 24H2
Gamers will appreciate the following updates:
- Auto HDR: Automatically enhances the colour and brightness of games, providing a more immersive experience.
- DirectStorage: Reduces game load times by allowing games to load assets directly from the SSD to the GPU.
- AI Upscaling: On Copilot+ PCs, games can be upscaled using AI, similar to technologies like DLSS, improving visual fidelity without compromising performance..
Security and privacy of Windows 11 24H2
Windows 11 24H2 emphasises user security:
- BitLocker Encryption: Enabled by default on new installations, ensuring data protection.
- Enhanced Privacy Controls: Features like Recall and Click to Do are opt-in, with data stored locally and protected by Windows Hello.
Step-by-step guide: How to download and install Windows 11 24H2
1. Open windows update settings
2. Enable ‘Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available’
3. Check for updates
4. Download and Install the Update
5. Restart Your PC
Alternative Methods to Install Microsoft Windows 11 24H2
If the update isn’t available through Windows Update, consider the following methods:
A. Using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant
- Visit the official Microsoft download page.
- Click on “Download Now” under the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section.
- Run the downloaded tool and follow the on-screen instructions.
B. Using the Media Creation Tool
- On the same Microsoft download page, click on “Download Now” under the Create Windows 11 Installation Media section.
- Run the tool to create a bootable USB drive or ISO file.
C. Downloading the ISO File Directly
- Scroll down on the Microsoft download page to the Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) section.
- Select Windows 11 (multi-edition ISO), choose your language, and click Download.
Known Issues of Microsoft Windows 11 24H2
While Windows 11 24H2 brings numerous enhancements, some users have reported issues:
- Game Compatibility: Certain Ubisoft titles, including Assassin’s Creed and Star Wars Outlaws, have crashed after the update. Microsoft and Ubisoft are working on fixes.
- Hardware Requirements: AI features like Recall and Click to Do require Copilot+ PCs with NPUs. Ensure your device meets the specifications before expecting these features.
Conclusion
Windows 11 24H2 is a comprehensive update that enhances user experience through AI integration, performance improvements, and increased accessibility. While some features are exclusive to newer hardware, the overall update offers benefits for a broad range of users.
FAQs about Microsoft Windows 11 24H2
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