Alex Ruben
Windows 11 24H2 Update in 2025: Significant Enhancements with Build 26100.3613
Microsoft has rolled out the Windows 11 24H2 update, build 26100.3613, which promises a slew of new features and enhancements aimed at improving user experience, productivity, and system performance. Released on the Release Preview Channel, this update is set to be part of the main release in the coming weeks, and it brings forth significant improvements across various areas.
Enhanced Live Captions for Copilot+ PCs
One of the standout features of this update is the enhancement of live captions, particularly for Copilot+ PCs powered by AMD and Intel. The live captions now support real-time translation in over 44 languages, significantly improving communication for users engaging in video calls and streamed content. This feature is a game-changer for multilingual users, allowing seamless conversations without language barriers.
Redesigned Settings Homepage for Commercial Devices
The settings app has undergone a redesign, particularly for commercial devices managed by IT administrators. The new homepage now provides tailored cards with relevant information, such as recommended settings and Bluetooth device management, enhancing the user interface for enterprise users.
Improved System Information Display
The settings app now includes top cards in the “About” section that offer a quick glance at vital system specifications, including processor, RAM, storage, and GPU. This feature simplifies the process of checking system specifications, making it more accessible for users who need to manage their hardware efficiently.
Touch Keyboard Gamepad Layout
For gamers, the update introduces a new Gamepad keyboard layout for the touch keyboard in Windows 11. This allows users to navigate and type using their Xbox controllers, complete with button accelerators for commonly used functions like backspace and the space bar, optimizing the gaming experience.
New Emoji Icon in Taskbar System Tray
A fresh emoji panel icon has been added to the taskbar system tray, allowing users quick access to emojis while typing. This feature enhances communication and expression in chats and social media, making it easier to convey emotions and ideas visually.
Input Improvements and Fixes
Numerous input improvements have been made, including enhanced reliability of the CTF mod exe and better typing experiences. Microsoft has also introduced natural language commands for voice access, allowing users to utilize synonyms and filler words during interactions, making voice commands feel more intuitive.
Task Manager CPU Utilization Redesign
The Task Manager has received significant updates in how it calculates and displays CPU utilization. The new logic aligns with industry standards, offering a more accurate representation of CPU workload across different processes. Users will find it easier to monitor system performance and identify resource-heavy applications.
Dynamic Widgets Update for Developers
Developers will benefit from the introduction of dynamic and interactive widgets that utilize existing web content. This enhancement opens up new possibilities for app integration and user engagement, particularly for developers targeting the European Economic Area.
New Daily Content Widgets
For users in the European Economic Area, new daily content widgets have been introduced, providing personalized information and updates directly on the desktop. This feature enhances the customization of the user interface, allowing for a more tailored experience.
Lock Screen Widgets Customization
Lock screen widgets can now be added, removed, and rearranged, allowing users to access critical information such as weather and traffic updates without unlocking their devices. This feature is particularly useful for quick information access, enhancing user convenience.
Start Menu Phone Sidebar
The Start Menu has been upgraded to include a new sidebar that displays information about connected mobile devices. This feature simplifies connectivity, allowing users to manage notifications, messages, and calls directly from the Start Menu without switching between devices.
Improvements to Windows Search Functionality
Windows Search has been refined to differentiate between local and web search results, offering users a clearer understanding of where their queries are being sourced from. This improvement streamlines the search experience, making it more efficient.
File Explorer Dialogs Respecting Text Size
The File Explorer dialogs now respect the text size settings configured by the user, ensuring that all dialogues, including copy and paste prompts, are displayed appropriately. This change enhances accessibility for users with visual impairments or preferences for larger text.
New Native Copilot App
The introduction of the native Copilot app marks a significant shift in how users can interact with AI. This app is no longer a web-based solution but a fully integrated Windows application, allowing for smoother interactions and more robust functionality. Users can engage with the AI for various tasks, including note-taking and information retrieval.
Notepad App Enhancements
The Notepad app has received notable improvements, including the addition of a Copilot button that allows users to rewrite, summarize, and change the tone of their text. This functionality empowers users to leverage AI capabilities directly within Notepad, enhancing productivity and creativity.
OCR Feature in the Photos App
The Photos app now includes an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature, enabling users to extract text from images. While currently limited to English, this feature signifies a step towards greater functionality in photo management and editing.
Snipping Tool App Enhancements
Enhancements to the Snipping Tool app include the ability to draw shapes and trim video recordings directly within the app. These features make the tool more versatile, catering to both casual users and professionals who rely on precise screenshot management.
Microsoft Store Update
The Microsoft Store has undergone a revamp, introducing a new homepage layout that categorizes apps for easier navigation. Users can now differentiate between apps managed by the store and third-party applications, streamlining the update process and improving overall store performance.
Deprecation of Suggested Actions and Location History
In this update, Microsoft has deprecated the Suggested Actions feature and the Location History API used by Cortana. Users will no longer see automatic suggestions for phone numbers or dates, nor will location data be saved locally, impacting how some features function.
Bug Fixes and Known Issues
The update also addresses numerous bugs and issues from previous builds, including those affecting file explorer functionality, remote desktop connections, and authentication failures. However, some known issues persist, which users should be aware of when considering the update.
Overall, the Windows 11 24H2 update in 2025 is packed with features designed to enhance usability, improve productivity, and streamline the user experience across various devices. As this update begins to roll out, users are encouraged to explore these new features and enhancements to make the most of their Windows experience.