Important Windows 11 Update: Here's What's Coming

Microsoft has just released the Windows 11 24H2 update, bringing new features you can start using now.

Microsoft Windows 11 has just released the 24H2 update, with this, there are several useful new features. For example, the Start menu is improved: you can now drag app icons directly from the Start menu to the taskbar. It's also possible to drag files into folders on the address bar. Additionally, you can now compress files in 7z and tar formats.

In terms of connectivity, Windows 11 now supports WiFi 7, meaning faster and more stable wireless connections. Support for USB 4 has also been added, offering transfer speeds of up to 80 Gbps for ultra fast data transfers.

The power saving mode is now available for both laptops and desktops. In terms of audio, a new feature called "Speech Focus" has been added, which reduces background noise during conversations.

What about Copilot? An interesting change is that it will no longer modify settings on its own but will instead give you step by step instructions. You can also remove it entirely if you wish.

Microsoft has also improved the update process. A new technique called "hotpatching" allows some updates to be installed without restarting the computer. Windows divides updates into different parts, so you don't need to install everything at once, saving you time.

This update is being rolled out gradually, depending on your hardware's compatibility. According to Microsoft, "If we detect that your device may have an issue, such as app incompatibility, we may initiate a safeguard and withhold the update until the problem is resolved."

However, you can install it yourself from the Microsoft website or by going to Windows Update on your computer and selecting "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available." If your computer is compatible with this latest version, you'll need to follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Whilst the update is now live, it might be worth waiting several weeks whilst Microsoft iron out any bugs. There have been reports of the new update causing the Blue Screen of Death for some users.