Microsoft is gearing up for the next major update to Windows 11, version 24H2, slated for release in late 2025. This update brings a host of new features and improvements aimed at enhancing user experience, productivity, and system performance. Let’s dive into some of the most significant changes coming to Windows 11 with this update.
Copilot+ PCs: The Future of AI-Powered Computing
One of the standout features of Windows 11 version 24H2 is the introduction of Copilot+ PCs. These are a new class of Windows 11 AI PCs powered by neural processing units (NPUs) capable of performing over 40 trillion operations per second. This hardware advancement enables several AI-driven features:
Improved Windows Search
Copilot+ PCs will benefit from semantic indexing alongside traditional indexing methods, making it easier to find documents, photos, and settings across Windows 11. Users can now use natural language to search for files, describing content rather than remembering exact file names or locations.
Windows Studio Effects
This suite of AI-powered video call and audio effects automatically improves lighting and cancels noise during video calls, enhancing the overall communication experience.
Live Captions
Live Captions now support translation of audio and video content into English subtitles from 44 languages, making content more accessible to a wider audience.
Enhanced User Interface and Interaction
New Start Menu and Taskbar
Windows 11 24H2 introduces updates to core UI elements:
- A redesigned Start Menu with improved organization and customization options.
- An updated taskbar featuring new icons and improved functionality.
Gamepad Keyboard Layout
The touch keyboard now includes a gamepad layout, allowing users to navigate and type using an Xbox controller. This feature includes button accelerators for common actions, such as using the X button for backspace and the Y button for spacebar.
Emoji Panel Accessibility
A new system tray icon has been added to improve the discoverability of the emoji panel, making it easier for users to access and use emojis in their communications.
System Performance and Reliability
Energy Saver Mode
Windows 11 24H2 introduces a new Energy Saver mode that works on both battery-powered and plugged-in devices. This mode reduces system performance to extend battery life on laptops and decrease power consumption on desktop PCs, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.
Quick Machine Recovery
For IT professionals, the new Quick Machine Recovery feature allows for targeted fixes to be deployed via Windows Update, even on devices that are unable to boot. This feature can help address boot issues by automatically detecting and applying fixes from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Task Manager Improvements
The way Task Manager calculates CPU utilization has been updated to align with industry standards and third-party tools. This change provides a more consistent display of CPU workload across all pages in Task Manager.
Developer and Power User Features
Windows Subsystem for Linux Enhancements
While specific details are not provided in the search results, it’s likely that Windows 11 24H2 will continue to improve the Windows Subsystem for Linux, enhancing the experience for developers who use Linux tools and environments on Windows.
Sudo for Windows
A new feature called “Sudo for Windows” is being introduced to elevate Windows command-line efficiency, bringing a familiar concept from Unix-like systems to the Windows environment.
Remote Desktop Improvements
The update promises enhanced connectivity and accessibility for Remote Desktop, though specific details are not provided in the search results.
Security and Privacy Enhancements
BitLocker Encryption
Windows 11 24H2 will enable BitLocker encryption by default on clean installs across Home and Pro editions, regardless of whether a Microsoft account is used. This change ensures that user data is secure from external threats right from the start.
Wi-Fi Privacy Controls
The update includes enhanced privacy controls for Wi-Fi network access, though specifics on these controls are not detailed in the available information.
Windows 11 version 24H2 is shaping up to be a significant update, focusing on AI integration, user interface improvements, and enhanced system performance and security. As with any major update, it’s likely that Microsoft will continue to refine and add features as the release date approaches.