Microsoft is updating the way Windows updates are delivered, aiming to make them faster and smaller. However, the Windows 11 24H2 update for Copilot+ PCs will be delayed.
Microsoft’s improvements build on their 2021 initiative with the Windows 11 21H2 update, which reduced update file sizes by 40% by separating Windows applications into standalone apps and only downloading essential components.
For the 24H2 update, Microsoft will send only the code differences between the last update and the current one. Smaller cumulative updates, or “checkpoints,” will be issued between major updates, following the same principle.
Users will benefit from smaller, quicker downloads and reduced storage usage from archived updates. The new update experience starts with Windows 11 24H2 later this year.
For now, Windows 10 and older Windows 11 users will see no changes. “If you are running other versions of Windows 10 or Windows 11 (earlier than version 24H2), the process of updating will be similar to previous monthly updates or annual Windows 11 feature updates,” Microsoft explained.
Presently, Windows 11 24H2 is available only on Copilot+ PCs, with some features like Recall held back. A general release is planned for later.
“Windows 11, version 24H2 will be available as a traditional feature update to all devices later this year,” Microsoft says.
Most users will likely receive the 24H2 update by September or October, potentially ending long update times that can halt PC usage for extended periods.