From its next big update. So today we will learn about all this in this post.
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| Windows 11 24h2 reference |
Extrapolating based on this precedent, most tech analysts expect
Windows 11 24H2 to see a September/October 2023 launch. The update process will gradually roll out to compatible devices in the months following as Microsoft monitors feedback and sends fixes where necessary.
New Features Expected in 24H2
While nothing is guaranteed yet, Microsoft has hinted at some
24H2 features coming down the pipeline over the last year. These early peeks, combined with examining problems in the current OS, can clue us into possible areas of improvement. Here are some of the most likely upgrades on tap:
1. Tabbed File Explorer
One heavily requested enhancement by Windows users is
tab support in File Explorer for easier multitasking. This was intended for the original Windows 11 release but got pushed back to the 2022 update before ultimately being delayed again. In a late 2022 blog post, Microsoft indicated tabbed
File Explorer is high on their list for a future update, which will presumably be 24H2.
2. Refined Start Menu and Taskbar
Microsoft is still actively refining the
visual redesign introduced in Windows 11, monitoring pain points from consumer responses. Some strongly desired tweaks like ungrouping
pinned app icons on the taskbar may arrive in 24H2. We could also see customizable recommended content sections and resizable widgets on the personalized Start menu.
3. Improved Window Management
The way users arrange
multiple open app windows got an overhaul with Windows 11, yet it still has room for improvement. With 24H2, Microsoft may debut upgraded snap layouts, finer window sizing control, an easier way to create desktops and switch between them, plus better trackpad and touch gestures.
4. Gaming Enhancements
Gaming has been touted as one of Microsoft's priorities for Windows 11. Following upgrades like
Auto HDR and DirectStorage support in the first version, 24H2 seems primed to deliver more for PC gamers. This could include better labeling and management of game libraries,
integrating Xbox profile and achievement systems into the OS, higher graphic speeds through software improvements, and tools for live streaming to
Xbox Cloud Gaming or Twitch directly from Windows.
5. Focus Sessions & Do Not Disturb
As remote work and distraction-prone digital lifestyles become the norm, productivity features are ever more important for an operating system.
Windows 11 24H2 may realize Microsoft's vision for
AI-powered focus sessions that lower distractions while concentrating. Users could
optimize notifications and app/website access based on their current mindsets, like working, gaming, reading, or relaxation. This concept design, currently called Microsoft Builder, may be branded Focus when launched.
6. Efficiency Updates
Besides major new capabilities, Windows feature updates also dedicate attention to general
performance and stability optimizations. The
24H2 update will likely package numerous under-the-hood improvements to increase battery life efficiency, speed up device wake times and shutdowns, minimize system resource usage for older hardware, fix lingering UI bugs, boost general operational snappiness, particularly on tablets/2-in-1 laptops, and smoothen workflows for pen, touch, and mouse input.
7. Security Enhancements
With growing cyber threats facing software systems as well as the growth of hybrid work environments, Microsoft tends to
upgrade Windows' defenses with each update rollout. Specific security features in the 24H2 pipeline are unclear currently, but we can reasonably expect things like tighter
protection of OS files/processes against tampering, extended support, and integration for Azure and managed workplace solutions, better threat intelligence sharing between devices, easier security policy administration for businesses, quicker patch rollout after
vulnerabilities are found, and more transparent user visibility into security mechanisms working behind the scenes.
7. Future Windows Core OS Integration
Microsoft engineers have been building an adaptable, modular
Windows Core OS platform since 2018, intended to power various devices in the future with faster update capability. This initially targeted
smartphones and dual-screen computers, before efforts shifted to making Windows itself more versatile. There are signs that foundational components of Core OS may start getting integrated into desktop Windows down the road, likely beginning with 24H2. What this entails precisely remains to be seen.
8. Improved Android Subsystem Integration
Another marquee addition within Windows 11 was the introduction of
Android app support through a customized Android subsystem via the Amazon Appstore. However, its functionality today is still somewhat limited and rough around the edges. With 24H2, we can expect Microsoft to sand down some rougher aspects of this implementation, potentially expanding the subsystem's capabilities, enriching settings controls, improving Windows/Android fusion, boosting performance, and widening the app catalog available.
9. More Voice Control Accessibility Options
In line with Microsoft's renewed focus on
inclusive OS design principles, Windows 11 24H2 seems slated to receive upgrades emphasizing improved accessibility, especially for users with disabilities. Enhanced voice control options seem particularly likely, possibly integrating some technology from the company's
AI assistant Cortana. This allows operating a PC more fully via voice commands for those unable to use a mouse/keyboard.
What We Hope to See in 24H2
Beyond speculating the most credible predictions according to Windows 11's roadmap, there are also some personal wishlist items we hope to make the cut for the
24H2 update:
- Return of ungrouped apps on the "Start Menu".
- Native support for third-party widgets from Spotify, Twitter, etc., alongside Microsoft ones.
- More personalized, dynamic theming options for the "Start Menu".
- Overhaul of Control Panel with settings migrated to Settings app.
- Introduction of system-wide pinch & zoom gesture interface.
- Upgrades emphasizing greater user privacy safeguards.
- Options to revert to a more Windows 10-esque interface.
- Support for Android apps in Windows on Arm devices.
Those are just a handful of hoped-for
24H2 features that would take
Windows 11 to the next level as a truly modern, versatile OS. Microsoft is keeping further details tightly guarded for now.
As testing begins from Windows Insider channels over the coming months, a clearer picture of the final 24H2 feature set will emerge. For now, tabbed file explorer, gaming improvements, focused productivity tools, easier multitasking, and Windows Core OS Foundations seem to be leading the charge as potential inclusions. And with constant updates, now the development of the OS for Windows will continue without stopping. So, friends, how did you find this information? If you have any queries related to this, then leave those questions in the comment box.
