What’s new and how can I download it?

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Microsoft had its Apple M1 moment with Copilot+ PCs, and now the team is back with a bunch of new features in its Windows 11 fall update – called 24H2.

Not only do you get the complete Copilot overhaul that my colleague Tony Polanco detailed, but you also get some outstanding quality of life improvements to bring the rest of Windows up to the current standard of chips from Qualcomm, AMD and Intel. Let’s dive into the small (but significant) changes being made outside of AI and how you can secure your spot at the front of the queue to get them.

What other new features does Windows 11 24H2 offer?

In addition to laying the foundation for the major Copilot update, which is expected to roll out “from November for select devices and markets,” 24H2 also brings with it some additional optimizations to the experience.

These include improved battery saver mode (crucial given how the new chipsets actually deliver power management improvements), support for Bluetooth LE audio, Wi-Fi 7, and HDR wallpapers. The latter is nice to see, as enabling HDR mode for Windows makes many parts of your operating system feel very washed out. If you create some balance here, it will be much more pleasant to look at.

How to download Windows 11 24H2

Microsoft has stated that it plans to roll out this update gradually, starting “in the coming weeks.” Now all we can do is prepare you to receive it as soon as it becomes available.

To do this, go to your PC Settings and click Windows Update. Once you get there, make sure you turn it on Get the latest updates as soon as they become available. This will secure your spot at the front of the queue for your laptop. I have to highlight this “for your laptop” part because Microsoft’s update frequency changes depending on the device.

For example, it is likely that Copilot+ PCs will receive this update first, followed by other older systems.

To know when you can expect to see your copy, the Redmond team will let you know the status of the launch in the Windows Release Health Hub.

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