Microsoft releases Windows 11 24H2 to the Release Preview channel

[harlan4096]

Microsoft has released the upcoming 2024 feature update for Windows 11 to the Release Preview channel. The update is available for testing ahead of its final release later this year.

The final version is expected to be released in September or October. It marks the start of Copilot+ PCs, which is a new PC class that is required to run most of the AI functions of the Windows 11 operating system. These PCs have new requirements, including a dedicated NPU chip.

The early release is noteworthy for a number of reasons:

• Windows 11 version 24H2 can't be installed on devices that have a processor that does not support SSE4.2. This is a new requirement that did not exist in earlier versions.
  
• AI features that require Copilot+ PCs are not integrated at this point. This means that features such as Recall are not available for testing.
  
• Cortana, WordPad and Tips are no longer available.
  

How to get Windows 11 version 24H2



There are two main options to install Windows 11 24H2 on a device:

• Join the Release Preview channel on an existing Windows 11 device and run a manual check for updates.
  
• Download the ISO image and install it on a new / existing system.
  

The Release Preview option

1. Open Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program.
   
2. Select Get Started.
   
3. Follow the instructions.
   
4. You need to link a Windows Insider account. You can link a Microsoft account, but need to register first on the official website.
   
5. Select Release Preview when asked to pick a channel to join.
   
6. Once done, open Windows Update in settings and check the get the latest updates as soon as they're available toggle.
   
7. Now click on check for updates. Windows Update should return Windows 11, version 24H2 now, which you may download and install.
   

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