Microsoft is already ramping up its efforts to release the next major update for Windows 11. New builds have been released to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels, indicating the initial stages of Windows 11 24H2, which is set to be rolled out to all Windows users this fall.

The 24H2 update brings a mix of features that Microsoft has been testing since last September, along with some exciting additions. One notable inclusion is the introduction of Sudo for Windows, a version of a Linux/Unix terminal command. This feature was first unveiled in a preview build earlier this month. Additionally, the update includes improved support for hearing aids, the ability to create 7-zip and TAR archives in File Explorer, an energy-saving mode, and changes to the SMB protocol. Notably, both the WordPad and Tips apps have been removed in this build.

Microsoft has committed to providing annual updates for Windows 11 while also introducing new features throughout the year. The release of these features in several smaller batches has been a common practice during the Windows 11 era. However, the early appearance of the 24H2 numbering marks a departure from last year's release, where Windows 11 23H2 was not made public until the end of October. In reality, most of the "new" features in 23H2 had already been launched with Windows 11 22H2 the previous month, with the update mainly focusing on version number changes and support clock updates.

There are indications that the upcoming 24H2 update will offer significant improvements. Microsoft seems to be revising the Windows setup process, which has remained largely unchanged since Windows Vista in 2006. This suggests potential changes to the installation screens and overall user experience.

The initial build of Windows 11 24H2 allows Windows Insider testers in the Canary channel to switch to the more stable Dev channel without requiring a complete reinstallation of the operating system. However, this option is expected to be limited as the Canary channel transitions into a new series of build numbers.

Some speculations arose from this update, claiming that the rumored "Windows 12" will not be launched this year. The existence of Windows 12 has never been officially confirmed or denied by Microsoft, relying solely on rumors and statements from PC makers and analysts. While the 24H2 update suggests that Windows 11 will continue for at least another year, it does not rule out the possibility of a Windows 12 release in the near future. Microsoft has previously renamed feature updates, as seen with the original Windows 11, which began as a redesign for Windows 10. Therefore, the future of Windows 12 remains uncertain.

There have been rumors suggesting that AI will play a significant role in Windows 12, much like it has in recent Windows 11 updates. Reports have indicated that "AI PCs" running the next generation of Windows would require a baseline of 16GB of RAM and neural processing units (NPUs) meeting specific performance standards. However, Microsoft has not made any official comments regarding these rumors and speculations.

While no specific system requirements have been imposed for Copilot or Windows' other AI features thus far, this might change if more AI features rely on local processing rather than cloud processing.

As Microsoft continues testing Windows 11 24H2, users eagerly await the official release of the update later this year. It remains to be seen what other features and improvements this update will bring to the Windows 11 ecosystem.