Windows 11 24H2: New Features, Tips, and Surprises You Didn’t Know About
Microsoft’s latest feature update Windows 11 24H2 has arrived, and while some headlines have focused on the bugs (we’ve covered that too!), this blog is about everything it gets right.
From interface upgrades and performance boosts to hidden features and AI enhancements, this update is much more than a routine patch. Whether you’re a business user, casual home user, or someone still thinking about upgrading, here’s everything you need to know plus some tips, tricks, and lesser-known gems to help you get the most out of your system.
🎨 A Smarter, Smoother User Experience
Let’s start with the obvious: Windows 11 24H2 looks better and feels more responsive.
Start Menu Just Got Smarter
A new panel for Phone Link users shows battery status and notifications from your connected mobile. It’s subtle but incredibly handy especially for those who leave their phones on silent during meetings.
HDR Desktop Backgrounds
If you’re using an HDR monitor, your desktop background now supports HDR too, bringing colour-rich wallpapers and better dynamic range. It’s a simple visual boost that makes a big difference.
Quick Settings Gets an Upgrade
The Quick Settings panel (that bit you access from the system tray) now lets you customise toggles, making it easier to access exactly what you use most, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplane Mode, and more.
🗂️ File Explorer: Finally a Power Tool Again
Windows 11’s File Explorer has seen real progress, especially in 24H2. If you’re still thinking of it as just a place to browse files, think again.
Tabbed Browsing
At long last, you can open multiple tabs within File Explorer—no more cluttering your taskbar with folder windows. It’s a small feature, but a massive productivity boost.
Right-Click Menu Labels
Microsoft has refined the context menus, making them more readable and accessible. You’ll now see clearer labels on actions like copy, paste, rename, and delete.
Built-In Archive Support
Say goodbye to third-party tools for extracting .7z or .TAR files: Windows 11 now does it natively. Quick, clean, and one less program to install.
🌐 Better Connectivity and Modern Tech Support
Wi-Fi 7 is Here (If You’re Ready for It)
If your hardware supports it, 24H2 unlocks Wi-Fi 7: offering lightning-fast speeds and reduced latency. For modern office setups or future-proofing your home, this is a big win.
Bluetooth LE Audio
Expect clearer audio and lower power consumption with the new Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio support—ideal for wireless headsets and conferencing.
Energy Saver Mode
A new Energy Saver toggle helps extend battery life on laptops by optimising background activity and visuals. Think of it as a smarter version of battery saver, great for those long meetings away from a charger.
🎙️ Accessibility and Productivity: For Everyone
Voice Access in More Languages
Voice Access can now understand and respond in Simplified and Traditional Chinese, with more languages expected soon. It’s not just about accessibility, it’s hands-free computing that’s surprisingly fast.
Task Manager Gets Smarter
Task Manager has been overhauled with consistent CPU usage displays, improved thermal readings, and a more user-friendly layout. For IT teams and power users, this is a big deal.
Widgets You’ll Actually Want
Developers can now create dynamic, custom widgets, and in some regions (like the EU), users can add, remove, and rearrange widgets on the lock screen. Expect this area to evolve quickly.
🧠 Hidden Gems, Tips & Tricks
Not everything in 24H2 screams for attention—some of the best bits are tucked away.
Customise Quick Settings
Right-click the settings panel and choose “Edit” to customise your quick access buttons—no more clicking through menus for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Restore the Classic Right-Click Menu
Miss the old context menu? You can still bring it back with a registry tweak (we can guide you through it if needed). For long-time Windows users, this is a welcome option.
Use Xbox Game Bar—Even If You’re Not a Gamer
The Xbox Game Bar now includes performance stats, screen recording, and quick-access controls that are perfect for content creators and remote workers.
🚀 Update Efficiency and Speed
Microsoft has also made real improvements behind the scenes.
- Updates install faster (up to 45% faster than previous builds).
- Restart times have dropped, and monthly updates use less CPU.
- Update sizes are smaller, saving bandwidth—especially helpful in office environments.
For IT admins managing multiple devices, these gains cut down on downtime and disruption.
🔐 Security & Authentication
Windows Hello gets a sleek new UI in this update—along with enhanced passkey security and cleaner sign-in screens. Security is baked in across the board, from smarter device lock to encrypted storage defaults.
If your business handles sensitive data or is working toward compliance standards, Windows 11 24H2 makes the case for upgrading even stronger.
🤖 A Glimpse into the Future: Copilot and AI
Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot, continues to evolve. While many features are still being refined, Copilot+ PCs will offer dedicated hardware to support on-device AI, bringing faster local results, better document summarisation, and more intelligent assistance.
It’s early days, but the direction is clear—AI is going to be a major part of the Windows experience going forward.
💬 Final Thoughts from System Plus
Windows 11 24H2 isn’t just a bug-fix update, it’s a serious step forward in performance, usability, and future-ready features.
If your business is still using Windows 10 or early versions of Windows 11, now is the perfect time to reassess your setup. From smoother user experiences to built-in security and AI features, this update is designed to help your team work better, faster, and more securely.
At System Plus, we’re already supporting local businesses across East Yorkshire with:
- Windows 11 upgrades
- Device audits and performance checks
- Microsoft 365 and Copilot integration
- Secure migration and update rollouts
Thinking of making the move to Windows 11 24H2? We’ll help you every step of the way.
Get in touch today to schedule a review or ask us your questions. we’re always happy to help.
About the Author
Richard Eborall is an experienced IT specialist with over 20 years in the industry, helping businesses across East Yorkshire and beyond navigate the ever-evolving world of technology. As the founder of System Plus, Richard specialises in managed IT services, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions, ensuring businesses stay secure, efficient, and ahead of the curve. Connect with Richard on LinkedIn to stay up to date with the latest in business IT.
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