Microsoft has begun rolling out the Windows 11, version 24H2 update to Copilot+ PCs and Windows 11 users.
This update aims to enhance the user experience, making tasks “faster, simpler, and more personalized,” according to Pavan Davuluri, Corporate Vice President of Windows + Devices. The focus is on leveraging AI innovations to streamline daily activities and boost productivity.
Key Features in the Windows 11 24H2 Update
Recall (Preview)
Recall is a new feature that allows users to find previously viewed content on their PCs instantly. After gathering user feedback, Microsoft has added extra security measures.
Users can choose to save snapshots, requiring Windows Hello for secure access. Recall also includes a sensitive information filter to protect confidential data, such as credit card details and personal identification numbers.
- Availability: Starting in October, Windows Insiders will have access to Recall on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with Intel and AMD-powered Copilot+ PCs gaining access in November. Broader availability will be announced later.
Click to Do (Preview)
Click to Do simplifies workflows by providing an interactive overlay on the PC screen that suggests quick actions. It connects users to various tools for tasks like Visual Search with Bing, background blurring in Photos, and text actions such as summarizing or emailing text.
- Accessibility: Users can access Click to Do by pressing the Windows key and clicking the mouse.
Improved Windows Search
This update enhances file search capabilities, allowing users to find documents and photos by typing descriptive phrases instead of exact file names. This feature works even offline, thanks to the powerful NPU on Copilot+ PCs.
- Availability: Enhanced search will first roll out in File Explorer and will extend to Windows Search and Settings later.
Super Resolution in Photos
Users can now improve lower-resolution images without losing quality. The super-resolution feature uses AI to upscale images by up to 8X and can reach 4K resolution in seconds on Copilot+ PCs.
Generative Fill and Erase in Paint
Paint now includes AI tools that allow users to create or edit images using simple prompts or brush strokes. Users can remove or add elements with precision. The updated model improves results and includes built-in moderation for a reliable creative experience.
Additional Applications for Copilot+ PCs
Microsoft is expanding its offerings for Arm-based Copilot+ PCs with a growing list of native and emulated applications. Developers are leveraging the advanced NPU capabilities, providing diverse experiences across productivity, entertainment, VPN, and security. Currently, available apps include:
- Web Browsers: Chrome, Brave, Opera
- Communication: Zoom, Slack, Skype
- Music & Media: Spotify, Algoriddim djayPro
- Creative Software: Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, Sketchbook Pro
- Productivity: LibreOffice, Todoist, Google Drive
- Security: ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, Surfshark, Windscribe (with NordVPN coming soon)
Additionally, over 90% of printers purchased in the last seven years work seamlessly with these devices, enhancing the overall user experience, according to Davuluri.
Additional Features
- Energy Saver: Designed to enhance battery life and energy efficiency, even when devices are plugged in.
- Improved Hearing Aid Support: With Bluetooth LE Audio, users can control audio presets and ambient sounds.
- Wi-Fi 7 Compatibility: This update offers faster, more reliable connectivity.
- Taskbar Improvements: Enhancements to the taskbar, system tray, File Explorer, and Settings make navigation more intuitive.
Availability
John Cable, Vice President of Windows Servicing and Delivery, noted that the rollout will be phased based on device readiness, starting with eligible devices running Windows 11, versions 22H2 and 23H2.
Users can opt to receive the latest updates by navigating to Settings > Windows Update and enabling the option to receive updates as soon as they are available.
- If compatibility issues are detected, a safeguard hold may be applied until resolved, and Microsoft will notify users when the update is ready for their devices.
- This update continues the annual feature release cycle for Windows 11, resetting the support period for Home and Pro editions to 24 months.
- Version 24H2 is now available through Windows Server Update Services and the Microsoft 365 admin center. Organizations are encouraged to test the new release with their applications and devices.
- The release also includes the Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, which offers five years of support.