Microsoft is presently in the process of developing the upcoming significant iteration of Windows, known internally as Hudson Valley. This version, labeled as “version 24H2” and the 2024 Update, is slated for release later this year. In contrast to the previous year’s version 23H2, the upcoming version 24H2 is anticipated to be a substantial operating system update built on a fresh iteration of the Windows platform. This update is expected to bring about enhancements in performance, security, and introduce notable new features and quality-of-life enhancements.
Moreover, version 24H2 is set to place a strong emphasis on advancing next-generation AI experiences, a concept that Microsoft has been hinting at over the past year. Speculations indicate the imminent arrival of an enhanced Copilot feature that will leverage AI and machine learning to enhance the Windows user experience, thereby boosting productivity across various applications and search functionalities.
There is widespread speculation that Microsoft might potentially name this update “Windows 12” to align with the launch of next-generation AI-driven PCs and experiences. However, this remains speculative, especially considering the departure of former Windows chief Panos Panay from the company. Hence, for the time being, the update is tentatively referred to as a significant Windows 11 update.
Currently, Microsoft is in the testing phase for some of the features slated for inclusion in this upcoming release within the Insider Canary Channel. As new features become available or are unveiled, this information will be continuously updated.
Windows 11 version 24H2: Anticipated Release Date
Insider sources suggest that Microsoft is aiming for a September release window for version 24H2, with plans to finalize the update during the summer months. The company intends to position this release as AI-centric, aligning it with the rollout of next-generation AI-powered PCs slated for 2024.
Given that version 24H2 is based on a novel Windows platform iteration, several development milestones lie ahead before the general availability of the update. Microsoft’s target is to conclude the new Windows platform release, codenamed Germanium, by April. Subsequently, efforts will shift towards the finalization of the version 24H2 update, which will be constructed upon the certified Germanium platform build.
The introduction of a new Windows platform release implies that the update will be implemented using the “OS swap” method, involving the complete replacement of the existing OS with the updated version. This method differs from the approach employed for version 23H2, which entailed servicing the existing OS installation. This swap is viable when there is consistency in the platform release across versions.
In essence, version 24H2 is not expected to commence shipping until the latter half of 2024. Some next-generation AI PCs might come preloaded with version 24H2 as early as June. However, the general availability of the version 24H2 update for existing Windows 11 users is anticipated no earlier than September, upon ensuring the update’s readiness.
This release is poised to empower next-generation AI PCs, some of which have already been announced and are set to hit the market as early as the following month. These PCs will feature robust NPUs designed to leverage forthcoming AI capabilities, details of which are yet to be disclosed but have been teased by Microsoft.
Windows 11 version 24H2: Microsoft Copilot Enhancements
Microsoft is gearing up to introduce further enhancements to the Microsoft Copilot for Windows with version 24H2. One notable change includes relocating the Copilot button to the far right corner of the Taskbar, enhancing accessibility by allowing users to effortlessly access the Copilot interface by navigating the cursor to the corner.
Version 24H2 will also incorporate a dedicated “Copilot in Windows” setting within the Settings application. This setting will enable users to toggle the Copilot UI’s startup visibility on PCs with expansive screens, in addition to configuring chat providers and third-party plugins.
While not yet in the testing phase, rumors suggest that Microsoft is working on an enhanced Copilot feature for version 24H2, leveraging next-generation AI PCs to enhance productivity across applications, files, and search functionalities. One such feature in the pipeline is an innovative AI-driven user history/timeline UI, facilitating users in locating previously accessed words, files, images, or applications using AI in tandem with Windows Copilot.
Windows 11 version 24H2: Snap Layouts Enhancements
Microsoft is actively enhancing Snap Layouts on Windows with version 24H2. A novel feature set to debut in this version will employ machine learning to identify commonly snapped apps and automatically propose them within the Snap Layout interface when users hover over the maximize button on an app window.
For instance, if a user habitually snaps Microsoft Edge with Notepad, accessing the Snap Layouts menu within either app will prompt the user with an option to snap both Edge and Notepad side by side with a single click, streamlining the process compared to manual selection.
Windows 11 version 24H2: File Explorer Updates
As customary with each Windows update, Microsoft is refining the File Explorer application with version 24H2. This iteration introduces the capability to generate 7zip and TAR compressed archive files alongside ZIP files. While the 23H2 release facilitated the extraction of these archive files, the forthcoming update expands this functionality to encompass archive file creation. Furthermore, users can now view and edit metadata for PNG files, allowing for actions like setting star ratings, modifying file descriptions, and appending keywords.
Windows 11 version 24H2: Quick Settings Enhancements
Microsoft is implementing modifications to the Quick Settings panel on the Windows taskbar with version 24H2. Noteworthy changes include introducing pagination to the Quick Settings interface, enabling users to scroll through all available quick settings on their PC instead of manually arranging a selection. Users can still customize the settings’ positioning by simply clicking and dragging them.
The Wi-Fi list within the Quick Settings panel has been revamped to include a new refresh button, facilitating the instant refreshing of the Wi-Fi list upon activation. Additionally, users employing a VPN on Windows will observe an enhanced UI for managing their VPN within the Quick Settings panel, featuring a split toggle for convenient activation and deactivation with a single click.
Microsoft has also enhanced the Quick Settings panel’s performance, ensuring swift access without delays, particularly during the initial launch following a system reboot.
Windows 11 version 24H2: Phone Link Improvements
With version 24H2, Microsoft is poised to deliver significant enhancements to the Phone Link feature on Windows, including the ability to utilize a linked phone as a webcam, akin to the integration observed between iPhone and Mac devices. This update will introduce a new settings page for mobile devices, empowering users to configure linked phones and manage Phone Link services as needed.
Windows 11 version 24H2: Energy Saver Mode
Version 24H2 introduces a revamped approach to battery saver and power options, unveiling a new “Energy Saver” mode applicable to both battery-powered and non-battery-powered PCs. The Energy Saver mode aims to curtail energy consumption by moderating system performance, thereby extending battery life on laptops and reducing power consumption on desktop PCs.
Upon activation, desktop PCs will display an energy-saver icon in the system tray, akin to the battery life indicator on laptops albeit without a battery percentage. The primary objective of Energy Saver is to enhance the energy efficiency of PCs, thereby contributing to a reduction in carbon footprint.
Furthermore, Microsoft has expanded the power controls accessible within the Power & battery section of the modern Settings app. Users can now configure lid and power button functions, in addition to setting the hibernation initiation time based on specific intervals. Previously, these controls were exclusively available within the classic Control Panel app.
Windows 11 version 24H2: General Enhancements
In addition to the aforementioned updates, version 24H2 will introduce general quality-of-life enhancements. Microsoft is currently evaluating a new “Install drivers” button during the out-of-box experience on the Wi-Fi setup page, facilitating system builders in clean Windows installations without driver-related hassles.
Moreover, Microsoft is streamlining the OS image by removing several built-in Windows apps. Commencing with this release, Cortana, Mail, Calendar, Maps, People, Movies & TV, and WordPad will no longer be preinstalled. On the Taskbar front, Microsoft has incorporated a subtle Wi-Fi icon animation upon network connection, alongside a convenient “Diagnose network problems” shortcut accessible via right-clicking the icon for expedited troubleshooting.
Lastly, a novel feature dubbed “Windows protected print mode” has been introduced, enabling PCs to exclusively print using the Windows modern print stack, compatible solely with Mopria-certified printers. These printers eliminate the need for third-party software installations, ensuring seamless functionality.
