Microsoft is updating its approach to delivering Windows updates, aiming to make them faster and smaller. Users anticipating the Windows 11 24H2 update, currently available on Copilot+ PCs, will need to wait a bit longer for a general release.
Since the Windows 11 21H2 update in 2021, Microsoft has been reducing update sizes by separating apps from the OS and only downloading necessary components. This method trimmed the update size by about 40 percent. For Windows 11 24H2, Microsoft will enhance this approach by sending only the differences in code between the current and previous updates.
Microsoft Streamlines Windows Updates with Faster, Smaller Downloads for Windows 11 24H2
Microsoft plans to issue smaller cumulative updates called “checkpoints” between major updates, applying the same technique of sending only the changes. This approach aims to provide several benefits, including smaller, faster downloads and reduced storage usage from archived updates.
The new update process will start with the Windows 11 24H2 release later this year, improving the user experience by minimizing download sizes and installation times. However, users of Windows 10 and older Windows 11 versions will continue to receive updates as usual, with no change to their update process.
Currently, Windows 11 24H2 is only available for Copilot+ PCs, and some features like Recall have been held back. The general availability of Windows 11 24H2 is expected later in the year, likely around September or October, signaling an end to long update times for feature updates.
