Version 24H2 is now also accessible via Windows Server Update Services (including Configuration Manager), Windows Update for Business, and the Microsoft 365 admin center. Microsoft suggests that businesses start targeted rollouts to ensure compatibility with the new release for their apps, devices, and infrastructure. Today, Microsoft announced the release of Windows 11, version 24H2, the next feature update for its operating system (also known as the Windows 11 2024 Update). Microsoft also warned that if they detect a device is not eligible for the Windows 11 24H2 update, they will put it on a "safeguard hold" until the associated issue is resolved. These safeguard holds are usually enabled due to incompatible software or driver versions, so updating to the latest drivers and software can help resolve these types of holds. The Windows 11 2024 Update is a significant release with many new features, including additional AI-powered capabilities, HDR background support, an enhanced Energy Saver, improved Hearing Aid support with Bluetooth LE Audio, and Wi-Fi 7 compatibility. This release also introduces the next Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) version, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, for specialized environments such as manufacturing and healthcare that require extended update stability. First, Microsoft announced an overhauled experience for its controversial AI-powered Windows Recall feature (rolling out to Arm devices this month and in November for Intel and AMD ones), including security and privacy upgrades and the option to remove or turn it off if desired. With the Windows 11 2024 Update, Redmond is introducing improved Windows search that understands natural language, as well as super-resolution to convert low-resolution photos to high-quality and generative fill/erase features to remove or add new elements to images in Paint. This update is a full operating system (OS) swap that contains new foundational elements required to deliver transformational AI experiences and exceptional performance," said Microsoft VP of Windows Servicing and Delivery John Cable. "Starting today, we begin to release the Windows 11 2024 Update, also referred to as Windows 11, version 24H2. As Microsoft announced in May, the Cortana, Tips, and WordPad applications will also be automatically removed after installing the Windows 11 2024 update. "The Windows 11 2024 Update continues the annual feature update cadence, with new feature updates released in the second half of the calendar year. Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 will be supported for five years, while Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024, also available today, will receive ten years of support beginning today. The new AI-powered features will only be available on Copilot+ PCs, first available to Windows Insiders and then broadly available to Windows 11 users following a phased rollout to select devices starting in November. The roll-out will begin over the coming weeks with eligible devices running Windows 11, versions 22H2 and 23H2, for customers who have previously opted in to be among the first to experience new enhancements. Windows 11 24H2 started rolling out in May to enterprise customers enrolled in the Release Preview Channel of the Windows Insider Program for Business.
This Cyber News was published on www.bleepingcomputer.com. Publication date: Tue, 01 Oct 2024 14:40:24 +0000