Microsoft's latest feature update, Windows 11 2024 Update, began its phased rollout months ago, first hitting enterprise customers in May through the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program for Business.
Businesses testing the update were given early access to features and tools aimed at improving productivity and system performance. Meanwhile, users with Copilot+ PCs found the update had been installed on their systems in June, without prior notification.
Now, the 24H2 update is gradually becoming available to the broader public, with users running Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2 able to manually check for it via Windows Update settings. Though this public release marks the start of widespread availability, the enterprise and Copilot+ groups have already had months to experiment with its capabilities.
Early Enterprise Access Sets the Stage
Windows 11 24H2 made its first appearance in the corporate world in May, when companies enrolled in the Release Preview Channel were given access to the new features and improvements in advance. The early exposure allowed enterprise customers to start testing compatibility and stability across their systems, ensuring their infrastructure could handle the update's changes.
In June, customers with Copilot+ PCs found themselves running the new OS version unexpectedly, as Microsoft quietly pushed the update onto their machines. With this groundwork laid, Microsoft is now expanding access to home and small business users, introducing a complete OS replacement rather than a standard incremental update. The process is more time-consuming, but it delivers a broader suite of features designed to enhance system performance and integrate cutting-edge AI functionality.
AI Tools and Performance Upgrades
As seen first in Copilot+ PCs, Windows 11 2024 Update integrates a number of AI-powered tools that were exclusive to these devices since June. The public release now extends these features to a wider audience, introducing tools like live captions and enhanced Paint options. Microsoft Studio Effects improves both video and audio for a more immersive media experience, while new energy-saving settings help manage power consumption more efficiently.
Windows 11 24H2 also includes advanced image editing features within Paint, such as super-resolution, which upgrades low-resolution images into higher quality versions, and new object removal tools. These additions reflect Microsoft's continued push to integrate AI tools directly into its operating system.
The update further introduces “Click to Do,” an opt-in feature that analyzes the content on your screen and suggests actions based on what it detects. This tool operates locally on your device, with no data shared with Microsoft servers.
Business Features Take Center Stage
Enterprises that began testing 24H2 back in May have already experienced the full range of new business-oriented features. One notable addition is Sudo for Windows, which brings Unix-style command-line elevation to Windows, allowing advanced users to run commands with administrative privileges. The Windows kernel has also seen an upgrade with the integration of Rust, adding security enhancements that appeal to enterprise environments.
Additionally, privacy and connectivity improvements include the ability to share Wi-Fi networks via QR codes, simplifying network management in shared spaces. Expanded voice clarity across devices, particularly for Teams, provides enhanced communication for users in both personal and professional settings. Microsoft Teams itself now offers easier account management, enabling seamless transitions between work and personal accounts on the same device.
Known Issues and Compatibility Holds
Despite these advancements, early enterprise users flagged several bugs, some of which have led Microsoft to implement safeguard holds for certain devices. Users running older software, such as previous versions of Easy Anti-Cheat or Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers, may encounter blue screens or other stability issues. Microsoft has indicated that these devices won't receive the update until the issues are resolved.
Other problems reported during the enterprise rollout include fingerprint sensor malfunctions and issues with wallpaper customization apps. While workarounds exist for many of these bugs, permanent fixes are expected in upcoming patches.
LTSC and Feature Removal
The Windows 11 24H2 update also signals the release of the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) version, which is geared toward businesses that require extended stability. LTSC 2024 will be supported for five years, while Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 offers 10 years of coverage for industries needing longer-term support.
Finally, several legacy features will be removed with the 24H2 update, including Cortana, WordPad, and the Tips app. These changes align with Microsoft's focus on more modern, AI-enhanced tools within its ecosystem, offering users new alternatives to the outdated apps.
Extra: How to Uninstall or Roll Back Any Windows Update
Microsoft hasn't had the best track record when it comes to updates in recent times, rolling out several that have serious bugs or even lead to data loss. When this happens, it's recommended you roll back the Windows update to resume normal functioning. In our other guide, we show you how to roll back or undo Windows updates via its hidden list of updates, including changes to drivers and security.
