Microsoft has provided a glimpse of the release of the upcoming Windows 11 version 24H2 through the new Insider Preview build 26100 for Canary and Dev channels on April 3rd. The update, which features many improvements on this build, has been rolled out to testers as part of the company's preparation for the annual feature update scheduled for later this year.

Microsoft mentions Windows 11 version 24H2 release through new build 26100 - (Image Source: uwinpc.com)

Microsoft released its last build, 22635.3420 (KB5035953), in March. We were given many main features like drag-and-drop, Windows Share, and Windows Backup on File Explorer. But on this 26100 update, we will also see many big improvements related to Copilot, Store, and Shutdown. Which we will understand further.

Build 26100 New Improvements for "Windows 11 version 24H2"

This update is primarily released for testers of Windows 11 24H2. Which also includes some improvements.

1. Build 26100 Watermark Removal:

• Microsoft has temporarily removed the build watermark (usually displayed in the lower-right corner of the desktop) from this build.

• This is a normal process as the company prepares for the final release of Windows 11 version 24H2.

• The watermark will return in future Insider Preview builds, but its absence does not mean the development process is complete.

2. Windows 11 Version 24H2:

• Windows 11 will receive an annual feature update cadence, with major releases occurring in the second half of each calendar year.

• Version 24H2 is this year's planned annual feature update, bringing new improvements and enhancements to the operating system.

3. General Improvements and Fixes:

• Build 26100 addresses an issue that prevented shutdown and hibernation functionality from working correctly in previous builds.

• It resolves an error (0x80240067) that some Insiders encountered when trying to download app updates from the Microsoft Store or Windows updates in Settings.

4. Copilot in Windows:

• The updated Copilot in the Windows experience now allows Copilot to function like a normal application window.

• Microsoft has fixed an issue that prevented keyboard users from accessing the "..." or refresh buttons within Copilot by cycling through them with the Tab key.

5. Windowing:

• A Desktop Window Manager (DWM) crash that caused some Insiders' screens to flash black has been fixed.

6. Known Issues:

• Microsoft is investigating reports of some Insiders being stuck on older builds (26040 or 23620) in the Canary and Dev Channels.

• As a temporary workaround, affected users can download the latest ISO and perform a clean installation. then opt back into the desired channel.

• There are also known issues with Voice Access and Windows Ink not working reliably with the updated Copilot in the Windows experience.

• When CoPilot is docked it is resized to a larger width so it does not always fill the panel properly. But resizing usually solves this problem.

That means this build 26100 represents Microsoft's ongoing efforts to further enhance the Windows 11 24H2 experience. CoPilot has also fixed various bugs and introduced feature improvements. 

As per what Microsoft is saying, Windows 11 version 24H2 is ready for release later this year. This build brings us the hope of more improvements and additions. What is your opinion on this topic? What new features do you want in this new version 24H2? Please give your opinion in the comment section!