Exploring Windows 11 24H2 Update: AI Features and Copilot+ Limitations

With the unveiling of the Windows 11 24H2 update, Microsoft has unleashed a veritable tidal wave of new artificial intelligence features designed to enhance user experience. However, there's a catch: these exciting new capabilities are limited to a specific category of devices known as Copilot+ PCs, which are equipped with dedicated Neural Processing Units (NPUs). If your device doesn’t fit this high-tech mold, you might find yourself peering through the glass—a tantalizing view of advanced functionality just out of reach.

The Upsurge of AI Features​

The updates following the Windows 11 24H2 rollout primarily aim to deliver cutting-edge efficiencies with AI, catering to users who own devices powered by capable processors such as Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra 2, or AMD Ryzen AI 300. For those with non-Copilot+ devices, the opportunity to utilize these tools remains frustratingly elusive.
So, what exactly are we missing out on? Let's delve into the key features:

1. Recall​

Picture a feature that remembers everything you’ve done on your PC. That's Recall. This AI tool, which takes regular screenshots to create a semantic index of your activities, is designed to help you find forgotten files or visuals by simply inputting descriptive prompts. Initially, Microsoft indicated it would be controversial given privacy concerns, but after a security overhaul, it appears ready for mainstream use. Recall will first be accessible to Windows Insiders with some Aventos devices, followed by wider release for Copilot+ PCs in coming months.

2. Generative Erase and Fill in MS Paint​

This feature evokes the aesthetics of Adobe Photoshop's Generative Fill tool, allowing users to highlight an area within an image and either erase or replace objects based on inputted descriptions. Existing fans of MS Paint might find this upgrade refreshing, transforming the beloved software into something more akin to an AI-assisted art tool.

3. Cocreator in MS Paint​

With the Cocreator functionality, users can sketch their ideas, and the AI will use its NPU capabilities to generate images in different styles—think Pixel Art, Watercolor, or Anime. It’s akin to having a digital assistant, but it unleashes creativity rather than just mundane tasks.

4. AI in Photos​

The Photos app has received an AI overhaul, too. Users can create stunning AI images directly from the application without needing external tools. Utilizing descriptors, it renders these images in mere seconds. Existing photos can also be restyled, with options like Fantasy or Cyberpunk effects.

5. Super Resolution in Photos​

No need for additional external upscalers; this feature allows upsampling images to 8 times their original resolution! Perfect for preserving those cherished old memories by eliminating artifacts and enhancing overall quality.

6. Click to Do​

Similar to Android’s Circle to Search, this feature lets users click on any part of their screen and receive contextual actions relevant to what they see. Imagine right-clicking on a stray image and instantly having options to edit or perform a visual search in Bing.

7. AI-Powered Windows Search​

Say goodbye to stringent file names! Now you can find documents and images using descriptive prompts. Integration starts with File Explorer, but Microsoft plans to broaden this to universal search and settings.

8. New Copilot App​

The reimagined Windows Copilot now features Voice and Vision functionalities. Users can interact through voice commands and get suggestions based on on-screen content, akin to AI chat or browsing assistance. Initially, features like Copilot Vision will be reserved for premium users on select websites, giving them a leg up in user assistance.

9. Windows Studio Effects​

Ideal for video calls, this feature utilizes the NPU to provide enhancements like background blur, automatic framing, and audio adjustments, creating a more professional appearance for remote meetings.

10. Auto Super Resolution​

Gamers rejoice! This feature helps enhance graphical performance by upscaling frame rates in real-time during gameplay. For budding Esports athletes, it's an absolute game changer.

11. Live Captions​

Accommodating universal communication needs, Live Captions now includes the ability to translate different languages in real time, proving invaluable during international video calls.

BONUS: AI Voice Clarity​

Initially a feature exclusive to Surface devices, this tool will now be available for all Windows 11 devices, employing low-complexity AI algorithms to suppress background noise in calls.

The Dilemma of Accessibility​

While these features herald an impressive advance in user functionality, they highlight a growing schism between users based on their hardware capabilities. Gamers and heavy users who own Copilot+ PCs can enjoy this robust toolset, but the vast majority with standard setups will be left out, creating a potentially divisive experience within the Windows community.
As Microsoft continues to pour resources into AI, the pressing question remains: What will happen to those who can’t upgrade to Copilot+? Will features eventually become accessible across the board, or will users face entrapment in a rapidly evolving digital landscape designed to cater only to premium configurations?
Thus, for many Windows users, excitement over the new capabilities could quickly devolve into a sense of frustration as hardware limitations become increasingly pronounced. It's a bold step into the future—one that is inevitably laced with disparate accessibility debates.
Windows 11's embrace of AI is a tantalizing glimpse into the future of computing, but unfortunately, for now, not all users can ideally partake in the feast.
The world of Windows is at a fascinating crossroads, and as the saying goes—it seems the future is bright, but not everyone gets to wear shades.
Source: Beebom Windows 11 24H2 Brings Many New AI Features, But You Won’t Get Them