Alex Ruben
Windows 11 24H2 Update: New Features and Enhancements in Build 26100.3624
The latest Windows 11 24H2 update, identified by build number 26100.3624 (KB5053656), brings an array of new features, enhancements, and some notable removals. This comprehensive update aims to improve user experience across various functionalities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s new and what to expect from this significant update.
New Windows AI Search for Copilot+ PCs
This update introduces advanced AI capabilities for Copilot+ PCs, enhancing the Windows search experience. Microsoft has integrated semantic indexing alongside traditional lexical models, allowing users to find documents, photos, and settings more intuitively. Users can now search using natural language phrases, making the search process smoother and more efficient, particularly for locating cloud-stored photos.
Live Captions Improvements
Enhanced live captions now support over 44 languages, with real-time translation capabilities to languages like Chinese. This feature significantly improves accessibility for non-native speakers and enhances communication across language barriers, making Windows 11 more user-friendly for a global audience.
About Section in Settings
The system settings now feature a redesigned ‘About’ section. This includes updated top cards that provide specific information about the device’s storage, graphics card, installed RAM, and processor. This enhancement helps users quickly access critical hardware information without navigating through multiple menus.
New Gamepad Keyboard Layout for Touch Keyboard
A new gamepad keyboard layout has been added to the touch keyboard, catering specifically to gamers. Accessing this layout is straightforward through taskbar settings. This feature allows users to navigate Windows more efficiently using an Xbox controller, enhancing the gaming experience on Windows 11.
New Emoji Icon in the Taskbar
A new emoji icon has been introduced in the taskbar system tray, streamlining the process of inserting emojis into text. Users can now enable this feature for easy access, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Task Manager CPU Utilization Logic
Microsoft has refined the CPU utilization logic within Task Manager. This change ensures consistent CPU usage reporting across different sections, such as processes and performance tabs. The improved accuracy allows users to monitor system performance more effectively.
Lock Screen Widgets Customization Options
Customization options for lock screen widgets have been expanded. Users can now personalize their lock screens directly from the settings app, offering greater flexibility and personalization of the Windows experience.
Windows Studio Effects
New Windows Studio Effects have been added, allowing real-time effects to be applied to camera feeds. This feature is particularly beneficial for users engaging in video conferencing or content creation, enhancing the visual presentation during calls or recordings.
Changes to Windows Search
In an effort to improve search functionality, Microsoft has separated web searches from local searches for users in the European Economic Area. This change is designed to enhance user privacy and provide clearer search results based on location.
File Explorer Dialogs Respecting Text Size
File Explorer dialogs, such as copy and save prompts, will now respect the text size settings configured in accessibility options. This adjustment makes the user interface more consistent and accessible, especially for users with visual impairments.
New Native Copilot App
The introduction of a new native Copilot app marks a significant enhancement in Windows 11. Users can easily interact with the Copilot directly from the taskbar, allowing for a more integrated experience without relying on a web view. This native app functionality is expected to improve usability and performance.
Updated Notepad App Features
The Notepad app has received a significant update, including a new Copilot button that facilitates AI-driven text manipulation, such as rewriting and summarization. Users will need a Copilot+ subscription to access these features, but free credits may be available for initial testing. Additionally, a new ‘recent’ button allows quick access to previously opened files.
OCR Feature in the Photos App
The Photos app now includes an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature that allows users to extract text from images. This functionality is particularly useful for users needing to digitize printed text quickly, enhancing the app’s utility beyond simple photo viewing.
Snipping Tool Enhancements
New features have been added to the Snipping Tool, including a free-draw option and the ability to detect and create shapes from drawn outlines. Users can also trim video recordings directly within the application, providing a more comprehensive screenshot and recording tool.
Microsoft Store Update
The Microsoft Store has undergone improvements, particularly in its homepage layout and update process. Users will now be able to update Win32 apps directly through the store, which are clearly labeled for differentiation. This change aims to streamline app management for users, consolidating updates in one location.
Removed Features: Suggested Actions and Location History
Two notable features have been removed in this update: suggested actions related to copied data and the location history feature associated with Cortana. These removals may impact users who relied on these functionalities for efficiency in their workflows.