Microsoft has recently unveiled Windows 11 version 24H2, also referred to as the Windows 11 2024 Update, which introduces a host of new features and enhancements aimed at improving user experience. Among the most notable advancements are significant improvements to the update installation process, promising a more efficient and streamlined experience for users.
With this latest version, users can expect a marked reduction in installation time, restart time, and CPU usage when applying future updates. Specifically, Microsoft reported an impressive 45.6% faster installation, 39.7% quicker restart times, and a 15.3% decrease in CPU consumption compared to the previous version, 22H2, provided that the PC is well-maintained.
Key improvements to the update process include:
- Parallel processing of component manifests: This feature enhances the efficiency of servicing components by utilizing parallel hydration techniques.
- Optimized reading and parsing of component manifests: The caching of results from initial reads allows for quicker access in subsequent processes, improving overall efficiency.
- Scalable use of available random-access memory (RAM): The system intelligently allocates RAM for storing manifest caches based on availability, optimizing performance.
In addition to these enhancements, traditional feature updates have become slightly smaller, with a reduction of around 200 MB. This change is largely due to certain inbox applications being updated through the Microsoft Store rather than through the monthly Windows updates. Consequently, if users already have the latest versions of apps like Mail, Calendar, and Notepad, those updates will not be included in the feature update.
Desktop & Start
- Integration of Phone Link with the Start menu.
- Simplified layout for the taskbar system tray.
- Revamped Quick Settings for improved speed and customization.
- Windows Spotlight image now serves as the default wallpaper.
- Animated taskbar app preview thumbnails.
- Support for HDR images as desktop wallpapers.
File Explorer
- Updated home tab layout featuring shared documents.
- Ability to duplicate tabs via right-click.
- Enhanced context menu layout for better usability.
- Support for creating .7z and .TAR archive formats.
- Direct viewing of Android phone file systems within File Explorer.
Apps
- A new Outlook app consolidating email, calendar, and contacts.
- Updated Copilot as a standalone web application.
- AI-enhanced features in Photos for generative erase and background editing.
- Photos can generate AI images based on user-defined criteria.
- A new Recall app utilizes AI to streamline information retrieval.
- Paint now incorporates generative AI capabilities based on user sketches.
Settings & Miscellaneous
- Windows Update now features checkpoints and hot patching for quicker, less disruptive updates.
- Voice Clarity employs AI to eliminate background noise in supported applications.
- Simultaneous configuration of power settings for plugged and unplugged states.
- A new Energy Saver mode replaces the previous battery saver, applicable to both laptops and desktops.
- Configurable mouse scroll wheel direction in Settings.
- Support for Wi-Fi 7 hardware.
- Introduction of a new PRISM emulation layer for improved performance of x86 emulated apps on Arm devices.
- Enhanced performance for Arm-based devices.
- AutoSR leverages AI to enhance gaming framerate and quality.
- Live Captions can now translate languages into English in real-time.
- Advanced Windows Studio Effects provide filters to enhance webcam output.
