Just last week, Microsoft released a new update for Windows 11 (version 24H2) that features big changes and new AI tools. The update — KB5062660 — is optional at the moment, but like previous updates, it works on performance and bug fixes.
Let’s examine the new features and how to get the update.
Smarter Settings with AI Assistant (Available for Copilot+ PCs)
Microsoft is currently deploying a new AI Assistant that will assist in navigating the Windows Settings for users. This is currently live on Snapdragon Copilot+ PCs and will soon be available on Intel and AMD counterparts.
How it works:
- Open Settings and search for changing resolution or turning on Bluetooth.
- The AI will assist and will sometimes perform the step for you.
- If something goes wrong, it can also undo the action.
This is a helpful feature for people who have trouble with the large number of options in Windows Settings.
New features with “Click to Do”
Microsoft Copilot is collaborating to provide new Click to Do features that are AI-enabled.
- Reading Coach: Focuses on correct syllable pronunciation and aids in big word fluency.
- Immersive Reader: Supports users in reading and writing tasks.
- Draft with Copilot In Word: Make a complete document with the selected text (Requires Microsoft 365 Copilot subscription).
- Email actions in Teams: Message or schedule meetings straight from emails.
Recall Gets Safer and More Transparent
Recall, Microsoft’s screen snapshot tool, has new features:
- All saved data can be reset and erased.
- Recall is available in the European Economic Area (EEA).
- To manage Recall, the user can go to:
- Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & Snapshots.
AI Enhancements to Photos, Paint and Snipping Tool (Copilot+ PCs)
More apps now have AI features, but only for Copilot+ PC owners.
What’s new:
- Photos: Apply light effects to existing images with the “Relight” feature.
- Paint: Generate text prompt AI stickers and edit parts of the image.
- Snipping Tool: Enhanced screenshot editing and color selection for coloring.
All Windows 11 Users General Enhancements
Copilot+ PC owners aren’t the only ones benefitting:
Black Screen of Death
- While the old blue crash screen is gone, it has been replaced with a new black screen that still displays the error code and problematic file, making it slightly better.
Quick Machine Recovery (QMR)
- If your computer gets stuck while starting up, it will now connect to Microsoft, send diagnostics, and download the necessary fixes automatically.
Minor Enhancements and Changes
- The snap assist feature now provides verbal and visual instructions.
- The snap assist feature now provides verbal and visual instructions.
- The touch keyboard’s gamepad layout has improved ergonomics.
- Bug fixes resolve outstanding concerns in File Explorer, notifications, and desktop icons.
Steps to Update the Windows Software
Follow the instructions below to update your Windows 11 to the version KB5062660:
- Open the Settings Application
- Select Windows Update
- Select Check for updates
- Request for updates
- Look for the preview of KB5062660
- Click to Download and install
This will update your system to the new version 26100.4770
Key takeaways
Many require PC’s Copilot+ in other features.
- AI tools are primary in vision.
- Sleeker and streamlined welcome units for Generals.
- AI tools are primary in vision.
- Sleeker and streamlined welcome units for Generals.
Final Note:
As this update demonstrates, Microsoft is going all in on AI. However, only certain users have full access to everything awesome in Microsoft products. If you are not on a Copilot+ PC, it might be a good idea to have one for the complete AI experience. For the rest, all the minimum features and improvements are available for use.