Windows 11 24H2 Release: Exciting Features and Known Issues

In a grand unveiling, Microsoft has made Windows 11 24H2 generally available, and just like a mixtape dropped on an unsuspecting audience, it comes packed with a blend of shiny new features, some gnarly bugs, and—surprise!—a heavy dose of AI. It's time to break down what's hot, what's not, and what you should be wary of as you navigate this latest iteration of Microsoft’s flagship OS.

Rolling Out the Red Carpet​

This week’s release, which has already found its way to Copilot+ PCs, is being served up in waves to the broader Windows 11 user base. Expect a gentle rollout for consumers, while enterprise users can locate their treasure troves in Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) and Windows Update for Business. So, whether you’re a home user or managing a fleet of corporate machines, this rollout is designed to fit you like a tailored tuxedo.

Three Layers: Enterprise, User, and AI​

The 24H2 release can essentially be categorized into three segments:

1. Enterprise Functionality: Aimed squarely at IT pros, characterized by extensive changes to the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol, Local Security Authority (LSA) protection enhancements, and local account management adjustments.
2. Consumer Features: This includes user-friendly adjustments such as drag-and-drop capabilities in File Explorer, added support for 7-Zip and TAR file types, and a few surprises like Wi-Fi 7 compatibility.
3. Generative AI Innovations: Here, Microsoft has gone all in, introducing features that will make traditional users feel like they’ve won the lottery. And what's a big launch without a bit of sky-high expectation-collision?

Notable Features and Tweaks​

The update incorporates a slew of alterations to enhance security and user experience:

• SMB Protocol Changes: Expect updates to firewall rules and support for utilizing the QUIC transport protocol instead of the traditional TCP, making it more agile for network tasks.
• Enhanced Data Protection: Personal Data Encryption (PDE) is now a default feature, adding an extra layer of security around sensitive folders.
• Generative AI Features: For gamers, the much-touted Auto Super Resolution feature is said to boost gaming with sharper visuals—all on the flimsy promise of being better than traditional rigs (cue the doubting Thomas).
• AI & Accessibility Improvements: Live Captions and smart audio adjustments during video calls are new amenities set to elevate your digital interactions to the next level.

Coining the Buzz: Copilot+​

It’s not an update these days without some theatrics around Microsoft’s AI strategy. Enter Copilot+, humorously described as “an AI companion for everyone,” where this year’s model includes enhancements like Copilot Vision, which helps users interact with content in new ways by interpreting web pages and answering queries.
Yet, skepticism looms overhead. Is it merely playing catch-up with the competition? After all, its voice features feel like noticing everyone's wearing the same outfit at a party: it’s nice, but it’s hardly unique. And perhaps with memories of previous privacy disasters—like Windows Recall—Microsoft is cautiously delving into AI interactions by opting for ephemeral sessions. “Your data’s safe with us!” they vow, insisting that nothing gets stored post-session. This seems like a welcome step back towards user trust.

Buzzkill: Known Issues and Cautions​

Now, what would a Microsoft launch be without a sprinkle of bugs to keep the tech communities buzzing? The typical suspects make an appearance:

• Fingerprint Scanner Glitches: A compatibility hold is in place while Microsoft determines which sensors might make it to the “disabled club.”
• Game Breakers: Users of certain devices with Easy Anti-Cheat may face the dreaded blue screen of doom.

The staged rollout means you might not want to hastily upgrade your entire organization just yet. While the features promise to enrich the user experience—no, they won't turn everything back to Windows 10's nostalgia—they do come with caveats worthy of a security bulletin.

The Bottom Line​

Windows 11 24H2 has landed, and while it is laden with flashy features and AI integrations that reach for the stars, it brings along its share of baggage too. As Microsoft's most compatible operating system ever (or so they claim), the cautious approach to rolling it out organization-wide is advisable, especially given the announced limitations and lingering bugs.
So, for our Windows aficionados out there: excited? Cautious? Both? Let’s navigate through this together at WindowsForum.com! Share your experiences, tips, and tricks as you roll out the update in the active threads.
Source: The Register Microsoft hits go on Windows 11 24H2: Fresh features, bugs, and a whole lotta AI