Windows 11 is getting a new update soon, version 24H2, which will bring numerous improvements and new features. This version focuses on improving the platform and general quality of everyday use, with less emphasis on big new features (unless you have a Copilot+ PC). Below, we highlight five of the most significant new features coming to version 24H2 later this year.

Updates to Windows 11 File Explorer and Context Menu

When Windows 11 was first introduced, it introduced a new modern context menu that simplified the layout and options, but was a functional step backwards. Common actions such as Cut, Copy and Paste were moved to a horizontal row at the bottom of the menu without labels, making it difficult to recognize. With version 24H2, Microsoft has updated the context menu so that Cut, Copy and Paste are displayed at the top with labels, making it easier to recognize the functions.

Also, File Explorer now supports creating different types of compressed files such as .7z and .TAR, and adds a new view of shared files on the home page, where all files shared between users and other people will be grouped.

Improved performance on Windows on ARM computers

Microsoft has optimized Windows 11 for ARM processors, which brings better system performance and a new x86 app emulation called PRISM for older Windows on ARM devices like Surface Pro X and ThinkPad X13s. These improvements will be most noticeable in emulated applications that will run up to 10% faster with the new PRISM emulator.

Redesign of the Quick Settings panel

The Quick Settings panel on the Taskbar has been redesigned to be easier to customize. Now all quick actions are available through a new layout that allows scrolling and adjusting the order of actions. The Live Captions feature is now included in the Quick Settings panel, the list of Wi-Fi networks has a refresh button, and the VPN menu has been simplified.

Clearer and clearer voice

The Voice Clarity feature uses artificial intelligence to remove background noise during calls or recordings, making it easier to hear your voice in noisy environments. This feature will now be available on all Windows 11 PCs, automatically working in applications that use Communications Signal Processing Mode.

New Energy Saver mode

The Energy Saver battery saving feature has been improved and can now be quickly turned on or off using the Quick Settings panel. It can be set to automatically activate when the battery reaches a certain percentage of capacity, further reducing system performance to extend battery life.

General polishing of the Windows 11 system

Version 24H2 also brings a general improvement of the operating system. The Wi-Fi icon will animate when connecting to a network, the OOBE experience has been updated to include driver installation from the Wi-Fi network selection screen, and several older apps such as WordPad, Mail, Calendar, Cortana , Maps and People will no longer be installed. Windows Update will also receive improvements, including a "hot patching" feature for critical improvements without the need to restart the computer and checkpoint updates to reduce the size of monthly cumulative updates.

The 2024 update is coming soon

Microsoft has not yet officially announced a release date for version 24H2, but it is expected to begin rolling out in September or October, according to Windows Central sources.