Windows 11 24H2 Official Release Date: September 24 (Early Access) and October 8, 2024

• Microsoft is set to launch Windows 11 24H2 on September 24 for early adopters.
• The full feature update will become accessible on October 8, 2024, coinciding with the Patch Tuesday rollout.
• This version necessitates a complete reinstallation of the operating system.
• Windows 11 24H2 will showcase a plethora of AI enhancements, a new Sudo command, an archival wizard, Energy Saver mode, and more.
• Copilot+ PCs have previously received version 24H2 on June 18, 2024.

UPDATED 9/17/2024: Microsoft has officially announced the release date for Windows 11 24H2 (2024 Update) as September 24, 2024, for users looking to upgrade early. Following this, the feature update will be broadly available on October 8, 2024, via Windows Update and other supported upgrade channels.

It’s crucial to highlight that the tech giant had already rolled out the Windows 11 2024 Update for Copilot+ PCs on June 18, 2024. This initial release included essential features and changes required for these devices to function optimally and showcase their new hardware capabilities. However, the forthcoming releases in September and October will enable the upgrade for any PC that meets the compatibility requirements for this new operating system version.

Additionally, it’s important to clarify that Microsoft has no plans to release Windows 12 this year.

Release Date

Windows 11 24H2 is set to become available on September 24, 2024, as an optional update for current devices, while the public release will take place on October 8, 2024.

In summary, the official launch date for Windows 11 24H2 is October 8, 2024.

The first release of Windows 11 24H2 originally occurred on June 18, 2024, specifically for existing systems. This version was tailored for the new Copilot+ PCs powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite ARM processor.

This release date was revealed during the announcement addressing the upcoming changes to Copilot. In these announcements, Microsoft highlighted that the transition to the Microsoft 365 app as the main entry point for Microsoft Copilot will coincide with the annual feature update release for Windows 11, specifically version 24H2, as further evidenced by the statement noted by the company which stated that the changes “will start rolling out to managed PCs beginning with the optional non-security preview release on September 24, 2024, and followed by the monthly security update release on October 8 for all supported versions of Windows 11.”

New Features

Here’s an overview of the new features anticipated with the Windows 11 24H2 release:

• (Delayed) Windows Recall (AI).
• Windows Studio Effects (AI).
• Live Captions (AI).
• Auto Super Resolution (Auto SR) (AI).
• Voice Clarity (AI).
• Cocreator for Paint (AI).
• Restyle Image for Photos (AI).
• Windows Copilot Runtime.
• Copilot native app (AI).
• Copilot suggestions in applications (AI).
• HDR image support for desktop backgrounds.
• Wi-Fi 7 compatibility with applicable hardware.
• Sudo command support in Windows 11 to execute elevated commands without opening a new administrative window.
• New Energy Saver feature for laptops and battery-powered computers.
• Create 7z and TAR files directly from File Explorer.
• Quick Settings featuring scrollable options.
• Share Wi-Fi passwords via QR codes directly from Settings.
• New Windows Protected Print Mode for printer setup without the need for third-party drivers.
• Additional pause and rename features in printer management settings.
• Server Message Block (SMB) protocol updated with new modifications.
• Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) enhancements.
• Improved hearing aid support through Bluetooth Low Energy Audio.
• New microphone testing functionality that compares audio processing modes across applications.
• Settings app with Color Management settings for adjusting color profiles without accessing the Control Panel.

The company is also testing an updated interface for the Out-of-box Experience (OOBE), refreshing the installation wizard design. However, it remains uncertain whether this feature will launch prior to the next feature update.

Installation

Given the significance of this update, a complete reinstallation of the operating system will be required, rather than a typical monthly update.

Microsoft will distribute version 24H2 via Windows Update settings and offer additional methods. For instance, shortly after the release, the company will update the Media Creation Tool and Installation Assistant to facilitate upgrades from version 23H2 and previous releases to Windows 11 24H2.

The ISO file will also be made available for download, allowing users to create bootable media using third-party tools like Rufus or perform an in-place upgrade by mounting it through File Explorer. The ISO will also enable installation of Windows 11 on virtual machines.

If you wish to upgrade early, you can download and install the latest preview of version 24H2 from the Release Preview Channel. The ISO file for the most recent preview is also available for download.

What are your thoughts regarding this new version of the operating system? Share your feedback in the comments below.

Update September 17, 2024: This page has been revised to ensure accuracy and provide the latest updates.

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