Microsoft has just released the most significant update to Windows 11 since its debut in 2021: Version 24H2. After nearly a year of waiting, users can finally experience a slew of new features and improvements that touch almost every aspect of the operating system. Let’s dive into what’s new and how these changes might enhance your daily computing experience.
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A New and Improved Energy Saver Mode
One of the standout features of Windows 11 Version 24H2 is the enhanced Energy Saver Mode, especially beneficial for laptop users constantly on the go. This mode automatically kicks in when your battery reaches a customizable threshold, optimizing energy consumption to extend battery life. It does this by limiting background processes, reducing CPU usage, and dimming the screen brightness.
Even desktop users aren’t left out. The Energy Saver Mode can disable certain graphical effects and pause background apps, contributing to overall energy efficiency. If you’re like me and often forget to plug in your laptop until the battery warning flashes, this feature could be a game-changer.
Deeper Smartphone Integration
Connecting your smartphone to your PC just got a whole lot easier. With the updated “Phone Link” app, managing your mobile devices from your computer is more seamless than ever. You can now use your smartphone as a webcam—a handy feature for those impromptu video calls when your laptop’s camera isn’t up to par.
The integration with the Start menu has also been improved, allowing quick access to mobile app features directly from your desktop. It’s a small tweak, but it makes multitasking between devices feel more intuitive.
A More Customizable Start Menu
The Start menu has seen its fair share of changes over the years, and Version 24H2 brings back some user favorites. You can now pin applications to the taskbar directly from the Start menu—a feature that many missed since the transition to Windows 11.
Additionally, a new account manager displays your Microsoft account information and benefits right within the Start menu. This makes managing user accounts more straightforward and keeps essential details at your fingertips.
A Smarter File Explorer
File Explorer receives some noteworthy enhancements aimed at making file management more efficient. Native support for 7zip and TAR compressed file formats means you no longer need third-party software to handle these files. Plus, performance optimizations have been made for unzipping ZIP files, which should speed up those large file extractions.
Another handy addition is the breadcrumb feature in the address bar, making it easier to navigate through folders. The “Copy,” “Paste,” and “Rename” options now appear as larger icons in the context menu, simplifying common tasks that we perform daily.
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A More Practical Quick Settings Menu
The Quick Settings menu, your go-to for adjusting system options like Wi-Fi and sound, is now more user-friendly. You can scroll through options more easily and rearrange elements to suit your preferences. For those of us who like our settings just so, this added flexibility is much appreciated.
Speaking of Wi-Fi, there’s finally a refresh button to update the list of available networks—a feature users have been requesting for ages. No more toggling your Wi-Fi off and on to find that elusive network.
Support for HDR Wallpapers
If you’re using an HDR-compatible monitor, you’re in for a visual treat. Windows 11 Version 24H2 now allows you to set HDR wallpapers, a feature previously limited to Windows Insiders. You can use .JXR format images as HDR backgrounds, and Windows will automatically adjust between HDR and SDR displays.
This enhancement means sharper images and more vibrant colors, taking full advantage of high-end displays. As someone who spends a lot of time in front of the screen, these visual improvements make the experience more enjoyable.
Support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio
Staying connected is essential, and the latest update ensures you’re equipped with the newest connectivity options. Windows 11 now supports Wi-Fi 7, offering faster and more stable internet connections for devices with compatible chips. Bluetooth LE Audio is also supported, bringing features like multi-stream (Auracast) and multi-channel sound.
These advancements are not just about speed and quality; they also introduce specific functionalities for hearing aid users, who can now configure their devices directly from Windows settings. It’s great to see accessibility considerations being integrated into these updates.
Voice Clarity: Enhanced Audio Communication
For those of us who rely on voice calls—whether for work meetings or catching up with friends—the new Voice Clarity feature is a welcome addition. Utilizing artificial intelligence, this mode reduces background noise to improve voice quality during communications. Compatible with x64 and Arm64 processors, it works across various apps like Discord and WhatsApp.
New Copilot+ Features
Users with Copilot+-certified PCs will notice several new AI-powered features designed to make daily tasks more convenient:
- Copilot Voice: Interact with your assistant using voice commands, making hands-free operation smoother.
- Copilot Daily: Receive personalized news summaries to stay informed without the clutter.
- Think Deeper: Tackle more complex queries with enhanced AI capabilities.
Additionally, Copilot Vision offers smarter browsing in the Edge browser, and Recall—the perfect memory function of your PC—returns with improved security measures to protect sensitive data.
In Summary
This substantial update brings long-awaited features and improvements to Windows 11, marking it as the most significant update since the operating system’s launch. While new features are exciting, it’s worth noting that such a large update may come with initial bugs. Patience might be required as Microsoft irons out any kinks.
If you’re eager to explore all the new features, you can check out the detailed release notes on Microsoft’s official website. Should your PC not automatically prompt you to install Version 24H2, you can manually initiate the update by navigating to Settings > Update & Security.
Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, Windows 11 Version 24H2 offers something to enhance your computing experience. From improved energy management to smarter integration with your devices, these updates aim to make our digital lives a bit easier—and perhaps a bit more enjoyable.