Microsoft’s big Windows 11 2024 Update is now available, here’s what you need to know
Windows 11 version 24H2 is now generally available. These are the biggest new features!
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What you need to know
Today, Microsoft announced the general availability of Windows 11 version 24H2, also known as theWindows 11 2024 Update. This is the release thatCopilot+ PCshave been running since the summer, and it’s now beginning to roll out to the rest of the Windows 11 user base.
The Windows 11 2024 Update is a major Windows platform release that includes a number of under-the-hood performance and security improvements in addition to new surface-level features and quality-of-life updates. Such improvements include a new emulation layer for x86 apps on Arm PCs, better gaming performance on certain GPUs and CPUs, and more.
The 2024 Update also includes a newly redesigned context menu in File Explorer that places the most common actions in labeled boxes along the top of the menu. This update also introduces the ability to create 7zip and TAR archive files directly from within File Explorer without needing to download a third-party app.
Here’s a list of the most notable new features available to all PCs with the Windows 11 2024 Update. Keep in mind that some of these features may not be available right away as Microsoft likes to roll out certain features in waves.
The Windows 11 2024 Update itself is also rolling out in waves, meaning you likely won’t see it available to download in Windows Update right away. Microsoft is using a phased and measured approach to rollout to ensure the update is installed as intended. To get the update earlier, be sure to check the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” toggled on in Windows Update.
Be sure tocheck out our review of the Windows 11 2024 Updatefor an in-depth look at the new features and changes. You can alsolearn more about installing the Windows 11 2024 Update today with our handy guide.
If you have a Copilot+ PC, you’re already running the Windows 11 2024 Update, so you already have all the features mentioned above. In fact, Microsoft just announced a flurry of new AI features coming exclusively to Copilot+ PCs running the 2024 Update this holiday season.
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Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch onTwitterandThreads
