Windows 11 Version 24H2: New Features and Improvements for Copilot+ PCs
Windows 11 version 24H2, also called the Windows 11 2024 update, was officially released on October 1, 2024. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional relying on a powerful Copilot+ PC, Microsoft’s latest update introduces several enhancements, ranging from usability tweaks to efficient battery management.
Read on as we discuss some of the key features included in this Windows 11 latest update.
New Features Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs
We’ve often discussed Cocreator (within Paint), Live Captions, and video conferencing features (using Windows Studio Effects) when putting the spotlight on Acer’s Copilot+ PCs, such as the Acer Swift 14 AI Laptop. For these Windows 11 PCs that are engineered for AI integration, the 24H2 update also adds Automatic Super Resolution, or Auto SR. This feature optimizes frame rates and enhances visuals during gaming. Note that there are specific technical requirements for both games and Copilot+ PCs to enable Auto SR.
Meanwhile, the Microsoft Photos app introduces two AI-powered features: Image Creator generates images based on your text prompts, while Restyle Image allows you to stylize an existing photo and turn it into an impressionist painting, for example.
Smarter Power Management Settings
Under Power & Battery in your system settings, there’s a new Energy Saver mode available to both desktop PCs and laptops. This option extends battery life by restricting background tasks and lowering screen brightness. You can specify a battery percentage that will automatically turn on Energy Saver mode.
Enhancements for File Explorer
In File Explorer’s right-click context menu, you’ll now find text labels for icons like Copy, Paste, Delete, and Rename. No more guessing or accidentally clicking the wrong icon! This update also gives you additional file compression options, including support for TAR and 7-zip files.
Phone Link Upgrades
If you’ve connected your Android phone to your Windows 11 PC, you’ll get to enjoy the Phone Link tweaks in version 24H2. Phone Link now shows up in the Start menu. The dedicated panel gives you a snapshot of your mobile’s connection status and battery, along with recent messages and calls. You can also view photos on your phone and read or compose messages directly from your PC. Another cool new feature is that your connected Android device can be used as a webcam.
Taskbar Improvements
The taskbar gets additional functionalities, particularly in the Quick Settings menu that launches when you click the Wi-Fi icon. Instead of the simple interface you had to add shortcuts to, this is now populated with icons you can scroll through for handy access to various system settings. Customizing the Quick Settings menu is still an option.
There’s also a new refresh button in the Wi-Fi menu, a small but welcome addition for conveniently switching or looking for networks.
Increased Connectivity
Version 24H2 now supports Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), enabling users to take advantage of faster, more reliable wireless connections when available. It can also handle USB 80Gbps speeds (USB4 2.0) for significantly quicker data transfers on compatible hardware.
To enhance accessibility, this Windows update introduces Bluetooth LE Audio support for assistive tech. Users can pair their assistive hearing device with their PC directly, as long as both are LE Audio-compatible.
Performance and Security Boosts
Part of the Windows kernel (the program controlling the operating system) has been rewritten in the Rust programming language, increasing the system’s security, speed, and reliability. This is just one of the many technical enhancements upgrading security in Windows 11 24H2. The new version also adds system security updates that don’t require reboots, called hotpatches, which means fewer interruptions to your work while keeping your PC protected.
To help you safeguard your privacy and location info, additional settings let you control which applications can connect to surrounding Wi-Fi networks. You can receive notifications whenever an app requests your location or Wi-Fi information, as well as see the recent activity of authorized apps.
Reported Bugs and Issues
While Windows 11 version 24H2 delivers useful updates, a number of issues have surfaced during its initial rollout. Here are some examples:
- Performance Hiccups on Older Devices: Users with regular Windows 11 PCs (not Copilot+ PCs) report slower boot times and occasional app freezes, especially during multitasking.
- File Explorer Crashes: Some users experience crashes when accessing tabs in File Explorer, particularly with large files or cloud-based directories.
- Bluetooth Connectivity Problems: Dropped connections for certain Bluetooth peripherals, such as headphones and keyboards, has been a recurring issue.
- Visual Glitches: Some users noted minor graphical glitches in the Start Menu animations and taskbar notifications.
Microsoft has acknowledged these problems and is actively rolling out patches to address them. Update your system regularly to mitigate these issues.
How to Get the Windows 11 24H2 Update
Updating your Windows 11 PC to the 24H2 version is a straightforward process. Launch Settings and go to Windows Update, then click Check for Updates. Install the 24H2 update and restart your PC.
It’s best to turn on the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option so you don’t miss any Windows 11 24H2 bug fixes or updates.
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About Micah Sulit: Micah is a writer and editor with a focus on lifestyle topics like tech, wellness, and travel. She loves writing while sipping an iced mocha in a cafe, preferably one in a foreign city. She's based in Manila, Philippines.
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