Microsoft gives the starting signal for the Windows 11 24H2 function update

Many have been waiting for it for a long time, now it’s actually here: the function update for Windows 11 to version 24H2. Microsoft released it generally on Tuesday of this week.

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The Windows Message Center first refers to a blog post that explains in particular the innovations for Copilot+ PCs – the functions are intended to better support the NPUs, i.e. the AI ​​coprocessors. Of course, the 24H2 function update for Windows 11 also provides numerous innovations and improvements for the general public. Microsoft presents it in a special article – however, at the time of reporting, the German version still references the 23H2 update from last year.

Brief overview of the innovations

Many of the changes originally planned for the 24H2 update came back early in the current “Windows 11 23H2” builds, such as extensions for the file explorer and extended support for compression not only in the ZIP archive, but also after 7z or TAR. However, 24H2 also comes with a better power saving mode for battery operation, Bluetooth LE audio, support for HDR backgrounds with large color depth and support for the new Wi-Fi 7 WLAN standard.

Microsoft notes that the company is carrying out a planned rollout of the update. The update will first be offered to PCs on which the “Receive updates as soon as they are available” function has been activated in the “Settings” in “Windows Updates”. They must also meet the system requirements and already have Windows 11 22H2 or 23H2 installed. However, the update cannot be forced in this way; it simply increases the probability of being one of the selected systems more quickly. However, a USB stick created with the media creation tool and the ISO images available on the Windows 11 download page already allow this. The installation files on it are dated September 10th. The Windows build then has version number 26100.1742.

For “IT pros” Microsoft provides another article that immediately provides a quick overview of the new features for admins – here Microsoft also mentions numerous SMB changes that IT managers should take a look at. In contrast, he also explains the availability and release in WSUS as well as Windows Update for Business as well as the 36 months of support that Windows 11 24H2 should receive.

Around two weeks ago, Microsoft provided the first indications that the 24H2 function update would be released in October. This also met the expectations of observers, as the period was within the usual time window for Windows function updates.

(dmk)