The Windows 2024 (24H2) Update: New Features You Might Have Missed

The Windows 11 2024 update (24H2) introduces features like Windows Copilot, improved File Explorer options, better Android integration, and more customizable Taskbar options.

It enhances connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio support, while retiring older apps like Cortana, Movies and TV, and WordPad.

There seems to be a consensus in the industry that this update to Windows 11 includes mostly minor updates.

Although true to a large extent, I firmly believe that any changes that improve our experiences using Windows or any other software are important. Given the many usability complaints with Windows 11 since 2021, any improvements are appreciated.

So, let's take a look.

Key Takeaways:

Here's what you can expect from the Windows 11 24H2 update. These include exciting new features and a few things to watch out for:

Windows Copilot offers a built-in AI assistant to help with tasks, but it needs solid hardware to run smoothly.
File Explorer now supports more file types and has a cleaner look, though early adopters might encounter bugs.
Android integration via Phone Link allows syncing messages and calls, but it's not flawless.
Taskbar and Quick Settings are more customizable, but might feel complex for non-tech-savvy users.
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio offer faster, better connections, but only if your hardware supports it.
Battery concerns persist, with AI features potentially and ironically draining power faster at times.
Cortana, WordPad, and Movies & TV are being retired.

Jump List

Start Menu Updates

What’s New in the Start Menu?

Android Phone Integration: Phone Link can now be added to the Start Menu, allowing you to see notifications and messages and even take calls directly from your PC with more ease..

Enhanced Search: The search bar has been improved, offering smarter suggestions based on your usage. Whether you’re looking for an app, file, or recent document, the Start Menu now provides results faster.

More personalization: I appreciate the new Start Menu's added personalization options. we can now pin my favorite apps, remove them, and arrange them however we'd like, making it easier to access the programs and tools used most often.

With widget integration, we can now quickly access things like weather, calendar, and news right from the Start Menu. It’s a great way to get quick updates without opening extra apps.

Drawbacks of the new Start Menu

For someone like me who remembers the simplicity of older Windows versions, the changes can feel a bit overwhelming. The new widgets, customization options, and integration features have a bit of a learning curve, especially if you’re not super tech-savvy.

Syncing with my Android phone sounds fantastic, but it’s not always seamless and doesn't always work well.

Sometimes, notifications don’t sync properly, or calls don’t come through. This feature seems to still need some fine-tuning.

The enhanced features, like better search and Android integration, are cool, but can strain older or less powerful computers a bit more.

Desktop and File Explorer Enhancements

In the Windows 11 24H2 update, both File Explorer and the Desktop receive some useful enhancements, making it easier to manage files, personalize your workspace, and multitask.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s new and the potential drawbacks.

1. Modernized Look and Feel: File Explorer has a refreshed interface, with a cleaner and more modern look. This makes it easier to navigate, and the layout feels less cluttered. The right-click menu, for instance, is simplified with more intuitive options and clear icons, making file management tasks like copying and renaming files quicker.

Simply having icons there where it's implied that people understand their meaning is naive and ignorant. These labels should have been there from the start, and I still don't think they should be at the top of bottom of the right-click menu.

2. Support for More File Formats: For those that care about this sort of thing, one of the standout features is built-in support for more compressed file types, like 7zip, RAR, and TAR.

Previously, you needed third-party apps to handle these formats, but now you can open and create these compressed files directly in File Explorer, making it more convenient and an important improvement for those not wanting to go hunting for the other programs for this simple task.

3. Improved Gallery View: I’m enjoying the new Gallery view in File Explorer. Now it's easier to scroll through images without needing to open another program. It’s a nice, quick way to find the pictures I’m looking for!

New Features on the Desktop

1. Enhanced Snap Layouts: It's now easier it is to organize open windows on my screen now. With the improved snapping feature, You can arrange windows into different sections more smoothly, making multitasking a breeze. It’s especially helpful when comparing documents side by side or using a large monitor.

2. Virtual Desktop Improvements: Again for those who care about this sort of thing, Virtual desktops now let you easily switch between multiple workspaces or desktops. This is great for separating work and personal activities or organizing different projects, helping you stay focused without cluttering one desktop.

Drawbacks of These Changes

1. Potential Performance Issues: I appreciate the useful functionality these updates bring, but I’ve noticed they can demand more system resources.

On older or less powerful computers, there might be some slowdowns, especially when using features like the new Gallery view in File Explorer or Snap Layouts. These features definitely ask a bit more from the system.

2. Learning Curve for New Interface: The revamped look of File Explorer and the updated desktop features might be confusing for users who are accustomed to older versions of Windows. The changes are designed to simplify, but those who prefer the classic layout might need some time to get used to the new setup.

3. Bugs and Stability Concerns: I’m finding the revamped look of File Explorer and the updated desktop features interesting, but I can see how they might be confusing if you’re used to older versions of Windows. The changes are supposed to simplify things, but if you prefer the classic layout like I do, it might take a little time to get comfortable with the new setup.

Taskbar Changes

I’ve noticed several updates to the Taskbar in the 24H2 version, making it feel a bit more streamlined. Widgets, Search, and Task View are still there, along with Start, but now Copilot is just a pinned app shortcut.

The Windows 11 24H2 update brings some handy improvements to the Taskbar, making it quicker and more intuitive to navigate.

Here’s my take on what’s new, along with a few drawbacks I’ve noticed.

1. Taskbar Overflow Menu: One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a taskbar overflow menu. This feature allows users to access additional pinned applications that don’t fit on the taskbar. When the taskbar is full, you can simply click on an overflow icon to see the hidden apps, streamlining access to your favorites without cluttering the main view.

To be honest, this doesn't feel like appropriate solution to this problem. With the size of monitors now, at least in my opinion, people should be encouraged to only keep their most frequently accessed programs and apps in the taskbar for quick access.

I think it would be better to encourage users to use the Start Menu search, and to build PowerToys into Windows 11 so we can use Windows Key + Spacebar to type and quickly bring up the app they're looking for.

2. Revised Notification Center: The notification center has been enhanced for better organization. Notifications are now grouped more logically, making reviewing and responding to them easier. This change helps users manage their alerts without being overwhelmed.

The key here is that they should make the Notifications Centre much more obvious. Clicking on the date and clock isn't intuitive.

3. Widgets Integration: The taskbar now offers more prominent access to Widgets. Users can quickly launch widgets from the taskbar, providing immediate access to personalized information like weather, news, and calendar updates without navigating multiple menus.

That is, once users figure out how to add Widgets to the Taskbar. This is another one of those features that's useless if people don't know it's there or how to use it.

3. Live Captions Toggle: One of the standout additions is the ability to turn Live Captions on and off directly from the Quick Settings menu. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer captions for videos, allowing for quick access without needing to dig through settings.

I love the concept of this, but the execution is clunky and terrible. Again, you have to know this exists and what to do to make it work.

4. Enhanced Visual Design: The overall design of the Quick Settings has been refreshed, making it more visually appealing and easier to read. Icons are clearer, and the layout feels more organized, contributing to a smoother user experience.

Drawbacks of Notification Centre Changes

1. Learning Curve: While the new layout is user-friendly, some users may still find the changes challenging, especially those accustomed to the older versions of Windows. The new setup might take some time to get used to, particularly for non-tech-savvy individuals.

2. Overwhelming for Some Users: For those who don’t regularly adjust settings, the additional customization options and features might feel overwhelming. The new scrollable menu could lead to confusion about where specific settings are located, especially if users aren’t familiar with the icons. It needs to be more clear how to remove and customize Quick Settings.

3. Performance Impact: The new features, particularly the enhanced visual elements and background tasks, could lead to performance issues on older or less powerful devices. Users may experience lag or unresponsiveness in the Quick Settings menu, especially when multiple settings are being adjusted at once.

You can also enable a simplified clock with a smaller date and time display and no notification icon, which you can configure by right-clicking the date/time and choosing “Adjust date and time.”

Quick Settings

In the Windows 11 24H2 update, the Quick Settings menu sees some significant enhancements designed to make it easier and more convenient for users to access essential features. Here’s a look at what’s new and any drawbacks associated with these changes.

New Features in Quick Settings

1. Scrollable Menu: The Quick Settings menu has been revamped to allow for scrolling. This means you can fit more shortcuts into the menu without it feeling cluttered or cramped. Instead of scrolling through a long list of settings, everything you frequently use is organized in one easy-to-navigate space.

I think this was the wrong approach. Making it scrollable to add more items defeats the point of calling it "quick".

2. Customization Options: Users now have more control over what appears in their Quick Settings menu. You can rearrange icons by dragging and dropping them, making it easier to put the settings you use most frequently right at your fingertips. This helps create a personalized setup that matches your workflow.

Drawbacks of Quick Settings Changes

3. Performance Impact: The new features, particularly the enhanced visual elements and background tasks, could lead to performance issues on older or less powerful devices.

Users may experience lag or unresponsiveness in the Quick Settings menu, especially when multiple settings are being adjusted at once.

Power Management Improvements

In the Windows 11 24H2 update, Power Management Settings receive several enhancements aimed at improving energy efficiency and giving me more control over device performance.

Here’s an overview of the new features and some potential drawbacks.

New Features in Power Management Settings

1. Enhanced Energy Recommendations: The update introduces more sophisticated energy recommendations to help me optimize my power settings.

Windows now analyzes my usage patterns and suggests changes that can improve battery life or reduce energy consumption. This is particularly useful when I’m using my laptop throughout the day and want to extend my battery life.

I find this feature handy because it takes the guesswork out of finding the best settings for battery efficiency. Having tailored suggestions based on how people actually our devices is a real benefit.

2. Improved Battery Performance Dashboard: There’s a revamped battery performance dashboard that provides real-time insights into battery health, usage patterns, and tips for prolonging battery life.

This dashboard helps us understand how settings impact battery performance, so we can make more informed decisions about power management.

For me, this dashboard is a welcome addition. I like that we can now see how settings choices affect battery life and getting tips on how to make it last longer.

3. Energy Saver Mode Enhancements: The Energy Saver mode has been enhanced to automatically adjust settings based on my battery level.

For example, when the battery reaches a certain percentage, Windows can automatically switch to a more power-efficient setting, helping to avoid sudden shutdowns.

I appreciate this change because it gives me peace of mind. Even when people aren't actively checking, Windows will shift to power-saving mode to help keep the battery going longer.

4. Customizable Power Plans: We now have more flexibility in creating custom power plans that fit our needs. This includes options to tweak settings like screen brightness, sleep timers, and processor power, making it easier to find a balance between performance and energy savings.

Drawbacks of Power Management Changes

1. Complexity for Casual Users: While the new features enhance control over power settings, they may introduce complexity for users who are not technically savvy. The detailed battery performance dashboard and energy recommendations could be overwhelming if you just want simple options.

I can see how this could be a lot to take in, especially if you’re someone who prefers straightforward settings. The extra details might feel a bit much if you’re not into tech.

2. Inconsistent Results: Some users may find that the energy recommendations don’t always lead to noticeable improvements in battery life or performance. Depending on specific hardware and usage, the effectiveness of these recommendations can vary significantly.

I’ve heard these changes aren't always spot-on. Sometimes the changes help, but other times people aren't seeing a big difference in battery life.

3. Potential for Over-Reliance on Automatic Settings: With the enhanced Energy Saver mode automatically adjusting settings, Many become overly reliant on these features. If we don’t monitor or adjust settings manually, some might miss out on optimal performance during times when they could really use it.

This is something I keep in mind because it’s easy to assume everything’s handled automatically. But sometimes, adjusting things manually could give me better results when we need a bit more power.

4. Performance Trade-offs: Like with any power-saving feature, there may be trade-offs in performance. If we switch to more aggressive power-saving settings, it might notice a decrease in speed or responsiveness.

It's a balance between getting more battery life and keeping our devices responsive.

Bluetooth and Hearing Aid Support

Photo by unsplash.com/@jonasschindler

In the Windows 11 24H2 update, significant improvements have been made to Bluetooth and Hearing Aid Support settings, aimed at enhancing connectivity and accessibility for users. Here’s an overview of the new features along with some potential drawbacks.

New Features in Bluetooth and Hearing Aid Support

1. Simplified Bluetooth Pairing: The update streamlines the Bluetooth pairing process, making it easier for users to connect their devices. Now, when you want to pair a Bluetooth device, the interface provides clearer prompts and guidance, reducing confusion during the setup process.

2. Enhanced Hearing Aid Compatibility: Windows 11 now offers improved compatibility with hearing aids that support the Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio standard. This means users can connect their hearing aids directly to their Windows devices for a more seamless audio experience, allowing for better sound quality and reduced latency.

3. Audio Routing Control: The update allows for more granular control over audio routing when using Bluetooth devices. Users can easily switch audio output between multiple connected devices, which is particularly useful for those who frequently switch between headphones, speakers, and hearing aids.

4. Hearing Aid Setup Assistant: A new setup assistant specifically designed for hearing aids helps users easily configure and manage their devices. This assistant provides step-by-step guidance, ensuring that users can quickly and efficiently set up their hearing aids without extensive technical knowledge.

Drawbacks of Bluetooth and Hearing Aid Support Changes

1. Inconsistent Performance: Some users have reported inconsistencies in Bluetooth connectivity, particularly when switching between devices. While the pairing process has improved, there may still be instances where devices fail to connect or experience drops in audio quality.

2. Limited Compatibility with Older Devices: While the update enhances support for new hearing aids, users with older models may find that they do not fully benefit from these improvements. The focus on Bluetooth Low Energy Audio means that older hearing aids lacking this technology might not function as well or may face limitations.

3. Complexity for Non-Tech-Savvy Users: Despite improvements, some users, especially those who are not tech-savvy, may still struggle with the new Bluetooth settings and audio routing controls. The additional options could lead to confusion about which settings to adjust for optimal performance.

4. Potential for Increased Resource Usage: The new features may require more system resources, which could impact performance on older or less powerful devices. Users might notice slower system responsiveness when multiple Bluetooth devices are connected or when using the hearing aid setup assistant.

Deprecated and Removed Apps

With every major update, Microsoft retires certain apps, and 24H2 is no different. If you do a clean install of this version, you’ll find that Movies & TV is gone—it used to be the main way to watch movies bought or rented from the Microsoft Store.

Along with it, Cortana, Maps, WordPad, and Mail and Calendar are also being phased out. The new Outlook app is set to replace Mail and Calendar.

Depending on how you use these apps, you might be impacted in different ways. Let’s take a look at what’s changing and some potential downsides.

What’s Changing with Deprecated and Removed Apps

1. Deprecated Apps: Microsoft is winding down support for several older apps, meaning they may stop receiving updates or support. Some of these, like Internet Explorer, are completely phased out in favor of modern alternatives like Microsoft Edge. Paint 3D, for instance, is no longer being emphasized as Microsoft nudges users toward the classic Paint app.

2. Removal of Certain Features: Standalone apps like Cortana are being removed, with Microsoft encouraging users to use the built-in search in Windows 11 instead. This is part of their strategy to integrate more features directly into the OS instead of keeping them as separate apps.

3. Emphasis on Native Apps: This update leans heavily on native apps that blend better with Windows 11’s design and functionality. Classic media apps are being replaced or updated to align with the new UI and features, aiming for a smoother experience.

Potential Drawbacks of the Changes

1. Loss of Familiar Tools: For users who rely on these older apps, losing them can be a hassle. Take Internet Explorer, for example. Although few use it now, some people may miss it as they shift to Microsoft Edge, which might not support the same features or extensions they preferred. Though most of us are already used to Chrome or Firefox, this shift could still throw some people off.

2. Learning Curve for New Alternatives: As Microsoft phases out older apps, users will need to get comfortable with new options. This can be a bit of a hurdle, especially for those who aren’t super tech-savvy.

3. Reduced Functionality: With the focus shifting to updated apps, some of the new options might not have all the features people relied on before. For instance, Paint may lack some of Paint 3D’s capabilities, which could affect productivity for those who used it regularly.

Overall, the shift toward new native apps aligns with Microsoft’s strategy to streamline the Windows experience, though it may mean adapting to a few new routines.

Is 24H2 Worth Upgrading To?

Given these changes, there's really no need to seek out version 24H2 the moment it's finally offered to your PC. This is the strong sentiment I'm seeing and hearing from many in the industry.

All in all, the changes in Windows 11 version 24H2 are mostly small, incremental updates, with nothing that will likely revolutionize how you use Windows.

With regular updates, you’ll get these eventually, so there’s no pressing reason to rush into upgrading unless you’re excited about any of these specific features.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Copilot

Windows Copilot is there to assist with organizing files, touching up photos, and even managing workflows to save time, among other things.

During a video call, it can automatically blur the background and adjust the lighting, so users look better without needing to fiddle with settings.

Copilot has come a long way, transforming from a simple pane in Windows 11 to a standalone app within just a year.

It has more functionality now, so users don’t have to rely on it for slow or awkward OS tasks like launching apps or tweaking settings (and they won’t miss that!). Plus, if you find Copilot unnecessary, they can easily uninstall it.

Voice Focus

Voice Focus, an AI-powered tool for removing background noise, was initially part of Microsoft’s Windows Studio Effects suite. Now, it’s available for all PCs, even those without a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). To access it, users simply head to Settings > System > Sound > [microphone], and they’ll see “Voice Focus” as an option.

Faster Internet with Wi-Fi 7

This one’s all about speed! If a user has a router that supports it, Wi-Fi 7 allows the computer to connect to the internet even faster than before. This upgrade makes streaming videos or downloading large files much quicker and smoother.

According to PCMag, Wi-Fi 7 is the next big leap in wireless tech. Think faster speeds, smoother connections, and a much better ability to handle a crowd of devices all at once. It’s designed to keep things running smoothly even in busy places like apartments or offices with tons of devices online.

Wi-Fi 7 still works with your older gadgets, but they won't see the full benefits from the modern standard. We started seeing it show up in new devices in 2024!

Gaming Improvements with 24H2

I'm not a gamer, but I found this video and really like how it describes the Windows 11 24H2 improvements for gamers. specifically focusing on Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS 2020).

Key points and caveats include:

1. DirectStorage 2.0: This feature, part of the 24H2 update, enables faster game load times and better in-game performance by allowing the GPU to directly access data from the SSD, reducing CPU workload. This is particularly beneficial for MSFS 2020, which is often CPU-bound, potentially reducing CPU load by 20-40%.

2. System Requirements: DirectStorage 2.0 requires Windows 11, an NVMe SSD of at least 1TB, a high-performance GPU with DirectX 12 support, and Windows 11 24H2.

3. Installation Process: The update is rolling out gradually but can be manually installed. The speaker outlines how to verify system readiness and troubleshoot common installation issues, including handling duplicate user profiles that may cause update failures.

4. In-Simulator Performance: 24H2 demonstrates smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and an overall enhanced experience in MSFS 2020 post-update, emphasizing that smoothness, rather than just high frame rates, greatly improves gameplay.

5. Troubleshooting Tips: For those experiencing installation issues, the video suggests possible solutions, including using the Windows Installation Assistant, setting a system restore point, and deleting duplicate user profiles if necessary.

In Conclusion

Windows 11 version 24H2 brings some handy updates, even if they're more on the subtle side. But sometimes, minor changes can really matter.

It makes it easier to sync with Android phones using Phone Link, and File Explorer is getting a boost with new labeled icons and support for more file types. Plus, Copilot, the AI assistant, has stepped up its game and is more useful.

They’ve also cleaned up the Taskbar and Quick Settings a bit, and made power management features simpler to access.

Voice Focus—Windows' AI-powered sound improvement—now works on more PCs, which is great for calls or online meetings.

A few older apps, like Movies & TV and Cortana, are being phased out.

All in all, these changes are helpful but not groundbreaking, so there’s no rush to upgrade—these updates will come along over time.

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