GVTech News The new version of Windows 11 24H2 is out, and here's everything that changes on our PCs
Microsoft just rolled out the biggest update to Windows 11 since its launch in 2021: version 24H2. This update was announced almost a year ago, and introduces many improvements and new features that affect all parts of the system. Here's an overview of the key new features that will change the way we use our computers.
Promises were made more than a year ago, but it seems that Microsoft is keeping their word! Here are the biggest new features for Windows 11 with the 24H2 release.
New power saving mode
One of the major new features of Windows 11 24H2 is Enter enhanced power saving modeEspecially useful for laptop users. This mode is automatically activated when the battery level reaches a customizable threshold, thus optimizing power consumption. It does this by limiting background processes, reducing processor frequency and lowering screen brightness.
This power saving mode also works on desktop computers, disabling some graphic effects and pausing background apps. Laptop users can also configure automatic mode change depending on the mains connection status.
Deeper smartphone integration
The Windows 11 connected smartphone app gains functionality with the 24H2 update. Now users can manage their mobile devices connected to their computers more easily, with the ability to use their smartphone as a webcam.
Integration with the Start menu has been improved, making it easier to quickly access mobile app features.
The Windows 11 Start menu is also getting some tweaks in this update. Users can now more easily pin apps to the taskbar directly from the Start menu, a feature that disappeared with the arrival of Windows 11 and is back.
In addition, a new Account Manager appears, displaying information and benefits related to your Microsoft account directly in the Start menu. This simplifies user account management and makes the experience smoother.
Smarter file explorer
File Explorer receives several notable improvements, including native compatibility with 7zip and TAR compressed files, making file management easier. The rollout of this update also includes improved performance when decompressing ZIP files.
What's also new is that users can now move or copy files more easily thanks to the integration of breadcrumb functionality into the address bar. Moreover, The Copy, Paste, and Rename buttons now appear as large icons in the context menu, making these actions faster and more accessible.
The Quick Settings menu, which lets you quickly manage system options like Wi-Fi or Sound, is now more flexible. It is possible to scroll through the options to explore them more easily, and users can also reorder the items to customize them to their preferences.
The Wi-Fi menu, for its part, finally includes a button that allows you to update the list of available networks, a feature that users have long requested.
Support HDR wallpapers
For users with HDR-compatible displays, Windows 11 24H2 finally allows the application of HDR wallpapers, a feature long reserved for members of the Windows Insiders Program. Users can use XJR images as HDR wallpapers, and Windows automatically handles the difference between HDR and SDR displays.
This feature improves the viewing experience for users using high-end monitors or TVs, providing sharper images and more vibrant colors.
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio support
Windows 11 24H2 is compatible with the latest connectivity technologies, including Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio.
Wi-Fi 7, faster and more stable than its predecessors, is now an option for devices with a compatible chip. Meanwhile, Bluetooth LE Audio enhances the audio experience with features like multicast (Auracast) and multi-channel audio.
These new standards also provide specific functionality for hearing aid users, who will be able to configure their devices directly from Windows Settings.
Voice Clarity: Improve vocal clarity
A new audio-focused feature is debuting with the 24H2 update: Voice Clarity Mode. This mode uses artificial intelligence to improve voice quality during communications by removing background noise. This feature is compatible with x64 and Arm64 processors, and can be used in communication applications such as Discord or WhatsApp.
Source: Microsoft
New Copilot+ features
Copilot+ certified PC users benefit from new AI features.
Among these features we find Copilot Voice, which allows you to speak by voice with the Assistant, Copilot Daily for a personalized summary of news, and Think Deeper for more complex inquiries.
Copilot+ also offers Copilot Visionan improved tool for smarter navigation in Edge. Finally, Recall, the ultimate memory feature for your PC, is back, with security improvements to ensure sensitive data is protected.
In short, a huge update to Windows 11, with finally new features that we have been promised for a long time. This is the biggest update to Windows 11 yet, so it won't be surprising to find some bugs in the new features.
If you want to see all the new features, you can refer to Update note On the Microsoft website.
If your computer does not offer you the 24-hour update automatically, you can do it manually by going to the menu Settings > Update & Security.
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