Recently, Microsoft unveiled a significant update that elevates PCs to Windows 11 version 24H2, commonly referred to as the Windows 11 2024 Update. This latest iteration not only introduces a suite of new features but also enhances the overall performance of computers, delivering a smoother user experience across the board.
What you need to know
- The Windows 11 2024 Update, which is also known as Windows 11 version 24H2, became generally available recently.
- The update includes several new features, but it also boosts the performance of PCs.
- According to several users, the Windows 11 2024 Update also improves performance when running on unsupported PCs.
Among the noteworthy enhancements are security upgrades and performance tweaks that promise to make your PC feel more responsive. Interestingly, anecdotal evidence suggests that even systems deemed unsupported by Microsoft have experienced a noticeable uptick in performance. A Reddit user shared their experience of running Windows 11 on a decade-old Intel Celeron processor, noting significant improvements post-update. They remarked, “Performance experience increased! At least in my experience,” highlighting faster loading times and smoother navigation.
While Microsoft has set stringent minimum requirements for Windows 11, including the necessity for a TPM 2.0 chip, many users have found workarounds to install the OS on older hardware. Although Microsoft has addressed some of these loopholes, the conversation around the fate of unsupported PCs continues, especially as Windows 10 approaches its end of support. However, the focus remains on the positive strides made with the latest update, particularly for older machines.
(Image credit: Windows Central | Zachary Boddy)
As for the features included in the Windows 11 2024 Update, here’s a concise overview:
- File Explorer now boasts an updated home tab layout featuring shared documents.
- Users can duplicate tabs with a simple right-click.
- The context menu has been revamped for improved usability.
- Support for creating .7z and .TAR archive formats has been added.
- Direct access to an Android phone’s file system is now available in File Explorer.
- A new Outlook app integrates email, calendar, and contacts seamlessly.
- Microsoft has enhanced Copilot as a standalone web application.
- Photos now feature AI-driven generative erase and background editing tools.
- Windows Update has introduced checkpoints and hot patching for a more efficient update process.
- Voice Clarity employs AI to filter out background noise in supported applications.
- Power settings can now be configured for both plugged and unplugged states simultaneously.
- A new Energy Saver mode replaces the previous battery saver feature, applicable to both laptops and desktops.
- Mouse scroll wheel direction can now be adjusted in Settings.
- Wi-Fi 7 hardware support has been added.
- The new PRISM emulation layer enhances the performance of x86 emulated apps on Arm devices.
- Arm-based devices are expected to run more smoothly.
- Phone Link has been integrated into the Start menu for easier access.
- The taskbar system tray layout has been simplified for better usability.
- Quick Settings has been redesigned for speed and customization.
- Windows Spotlight images are now set as the default wallpaper option.
- Users can now set HDR images as their desktop wallpaper.
For those eager to explore these enhancements, guides detailing which devices will receive the Windows 11 2024 Update first and how to manually initiate the update are readily available.
