As a daily Windows user, I was excited (and a bit skeptical) to explore Windows 11's new 24H2 update. Microsoft has been teasing AI integrations and system improvements for a while, so I dove right in to see how these updates would actually impact day-to-day tasks and overall system experience. Here’s my take on the standout features and what they mean for us tech enthusiasts and everyday users.
1. File Explorer Gets a Glow-Up
One of the first things you'll notice is the refined File Explorer interface. It's sleeker, more organized, and honestly a lot easier to use. If you use a lot of archived files, the native support for .7z and .TAR files is a game-changer. No need for third-party tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip — now, you can open, extract, and even create these archive types right from File Explorer. I tested this with some work archives and found it incredibly smooth and fast, which really simplifies file management for both casual and power users.
2. AI-Powered Windows Studio Effects for Better Video Calls
If you’re working from home or just enjoy video chatting with friends, the new Studio Effects will probably catch your eye. This update adds AI-driven tools like automatic framing, background blur, and voice focus to make sure your calls look and sound great. You can find these under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Cameras or in the quick settings menu. For me, the voice clarity feature was a big deal — it uses AI to filter out background noise, so if you’re in a noisy home office or café, your calls will be a lot clearer.
3. Windows Copilot Becomes Standalone and More Flexible
The Windows Copilot AI assistant has evolved from a sidebar tool to a resizable, standalone window. It’s an improvement if you’re looking for flexibility, though some of its integrations with system settings have been scaled back. Copilot now uses a mix of cloud and on-device AI processing, which means some tasks will still need an internet connection, but it’s faster at handling localized tasks. I tried asking it for quick shortcuts and app recommendations, and it delivered without interrupting my workflow. For multitaskers, this more agile design could be a real productivity boost.
4. Gaming Perks: Auto Super Resolution
For gamers, the Auto Super Resolution (ASR) feature might be the most exciting part of the update. ASR works similarly to Nvidia’s DLSS or AMD’s FidelityFX, upscaling graphics and improving frame rates on supported games. The catch? You’ll need a device with an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) to really take advantage of this. I tested it out on a few indie titles that support it, and the difference was noticeable — crisper visuals without tanking performance. If you’re a gaming enthusiast with a Windows 11 Copilot+ device, this feature is definitely worth checking out.
5. Start Menu and Taskbar Tweaks
Microsoft has made subtle, but effective, tweaks to the Start Menu and Taskbar. If you use the Phone Link app to sync your Android device with Windows, you’ll now see an option to view your phone directly in the Start Menu. It’s essentially a mini Phone Link that gives you quick access to messages, calls, and recent notifications.
The Taskbar has also received a handy new volume mixer. You can now adjust audio for individual apps, which is great if, like me, you prefer Spotify at a low volume but want system notifications at full blast. This kind of control wasn’t easily accessible before, so it’s a welcome addition for media and music lovers.
6. File Sharing and Search Improvements
One small but valuable feature is the ability to share files directly from the search bar. I stumbled upon this when searching for a document and noticed a new share option in the right-click menu. It’s a small change, but if you often collaborate on projects, this will save you a couple of steps. The “Share” feature in the search experience streamlines workflows for people who juggle multiple files and projects daily.
7. Live Captions and Translations for Accessibility
Microsoft has gone big on accessibility, updating the Live Captions feature to include real-time translations. This is especially useful if you’re watching content in another language. For now, you’ll need an NPU device to use the translation feature offline, but it’s impressive that Microsoft is prioritizing inclusivity with multilingual support. For anyone with hearing impairments or those learning new languages, this feature is a fantastic addition.
Final Thoughts: Windows 11 24H2 Brings Subtle but Significant Upgrades
Overall, Windows 11 24H2 is a solid step forward, especially for users who benefit from enhanced AI features and a more streamlined interface. The updates don’t reinvent Windows, but they add layers of usability and customization that make a difference, especially if you use your PC for work, gaming, or content creation.
Whether it’s the improved File Explorer, Copilot upgrades, or the AI-driven Studio Effects, Microsoft is focusing on giving users practical tools that enhance their everyday experience. It’s great to see these improvements that make Windows 11 feel more polished and intuitive.
If you haven’t tried out the update yet, I’d recommend checking it out — you might be surprised at how these seemingly minor updates can add up to a noticeably smoother experience!
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