Microsoft Unveils Windows 11 24H2 Update
Microsoft has seemingly provided a glimpse into the upcoming Windows 11 24H2, also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update, with a tentative rollout date set for September 24. This information emerged from a blog post detailing the integration of Microsoft Copilot into the Microsoft 365 app for enterprise users, coinciding with the next feature update for Windows 11.
In the announcement, Microsoft noted that the new Copilot experience would launch alongside Windows 11 24H2. The company stated, “The shift to the Microsoft 365 app as the entry point for Microsoft Copilot will align with the annual Windows 11 feature update release.” The changes are expected to begin with an optional non-security preview release on September 24, followed by a mandatory security update on October 8 for all supported Windows 11 versions. Windows 10 users will receive these updates the following month.
Since June, Windows 11 24H2 has been available on Copilot+ PCs powered by Snapdragon processors, and it is now set to extend its reach to Intel and AMD hardware in the coming week. However, it’s important to note that not every PC will receive the update on September 24; the initial rollout will focus on flagship devices. Users eager to access the new features as soon as they are available can opt to enable the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” setting in Windows Update and manually check for updates.
Changes in Windows 11 2024 Update
The Windows 11 24H2 update introduces a variety of new features, with some notable highlights outlined below.
Voice Clarity
Voice Clarity is now accessible to all users of Windows 11 24H2. This innovative feature utilizes AI models to enhance audio quality by reducing echo and minimizing background noise. Initially exclusive to Surface devices, Voice Clarity is now available across all compatible PCs.
Sudo for Windows
A new addition to Windows 11 is the “Sudo for Windows” feature, which allows users to execute elevated commands. To activate this functionality, navigate to Settings > For Developers and enable the “Enable Sudo” option. Users can utilize Sudo in various modes:
- In a New Window (forceNewWindow): This default setting opens a new elevated console window for command execution.
- Input Closed (disableInput): This mode permits the elevated process to run within the current window.
- Inline: This state allows the elevated process to share input and output streams with the current window.
New Microsoft Teams
The update also features a revamped Microsoft Teams app that supports multiple accounts, offering improved speed and cross-platform functionality.
How to Get Windows 11 24H2 Right Now
For those looking to install Windows 11 24H2 immediately, joining the Windows Insider Release Preview channel is an option. Here’s how to manually check for updates:
- Open Settings from the Start menu.
- Select Windows Update from the left-hand menu.
- Click on Windows Insider Program.
- Click Get started, sign in with your Microsoft account, and choose “Release Preview Channel”.
- Return to Windows Update and click “Check for updates”.
- When prompted, click Download.
It’s worth noting that while Intel and AMD PCs will benefit from the update, advanced AI features like Recall AI will remain exclusive to devices equipped with a Snapdragon X chip.