Microsoft has launched the phased rollout of its new Windows 11 update for 2024, designated as version 24H2. This update introduces Microsoft’s innovative AI features to select PCs, along with a refreshed look for File Explorer, support for the sudo command for privilege elevation in standard console sessions, enhanced tools for IT teams, security updates, and more.
File Explorer and Quick Settings Enhancements
With this update, Windows 11 now supports Wi-Fi 7, allowing users to share Wi-Fi networks via QR codes. Noteworthy enhancements include:
- Scrollable Quick Settings: A new scrollable view simplifies customization within quick settings.
- Updated File Explorer: New labels and features enhance File Explorer’s functionality, including a visualization of the current file’s location.
- Enhanced Hearing Aid Support: Advanced Bluetooth Low Energy Audio device support for assistive hearing devices is now available on compatible PCs. The “Bluetooth & Devices” settings page has also been upgraded, offering battery life and connection status indicators as well as audio settings for connected devices.
- Energy-Saver Mode: Accessible through quick settings, this mode can be configured to lower power consumption when the battery reaches a specific level, or it can be toggled manually.
- Content-Adaptive Brightness Control: Certain devices will now automatically adjust screen brightness based on activity when plugged in, optimizing energy use.
- Microsoft Teams Improvements: Switch seamlessly between business and personal accounts within Microsoft Teams without needing to close the app.
- Voice Clarity Feature: This feature, designed to reduce background noise and distortion during calls, is now available on more devices beyond Surface products.
- Lock Screen Customization: New options for displaying widgets and personalizing lock screens have been added.
- Copilot AI Updates: New features include Live Captions, Windows Studio Effects for video calls, and enhanced photo editing capabilities.
Introduction of the Sudo Command
Developers can now utilize the general availability of the sudo command in the command-line interface, allowing for elevated commands within regular console sessions.
Security Enhancements in Version 24H2
This update introduces a variety of significant security features, including a pop-up notification for nearby Wi-Fi. Users can now customize which apps can access Wi-Fi networks at their physical location. For instance, prompts will appear when new applications connect to location services, ensuring apps cannot determine a device’s physical location without user consent.
Notable security updates in Windows 11 version 24H2 include:
- Support for SHA-3, a NIST-standardized hash function, which aids various security implementations.
- Personal Data Encryption for folders that allows encryption at the folder level.
- The deployment of App Control for Business to guard against malicious code.
- A protected print mode to maintain the confidentiality of print jobs.
You can find the complete list of changes for the Windows 11 2024 update here.
How to Access Windows 11 Version 24H2
IT professionals using Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2 for business can obtain the update through Windows Server Update Services, including Configuration Manager, as well as Windows Update for Business and the Microsoft 365 admin center.
For personal devices running Windows 11 versions 22H2 and 23H2, the update is available starting today, although the rollout will be gradual. Users who have opted for the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option in the Windows Update menu will have priority access to the changes.
To see if you’re eligible for the update, go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates, or use the Windows Update shortcut.
