Our last blog discussed the arrival of Windows 24H2, an update expected to roll out in September of 2024. The update will deliver the new application Recall, as well as provide important improvements utilizing AI. (Read more here.) Microsoft is also planning to significantly enhance Microsoft Copilot for Windows with version 24H2, beginning with their move of the Copilot button to the far-right corner of the Taskbar, facilitating access for users.
Review: What is Microsoft CoPilot?
Microsoft 365 Copilot is an AI-powered productivity tool that integrates with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and other Microsoft 365 apps.
Copilot assists with content summaries, document creation, and streamlined collaboration within Microsoft 365 apps. Whether composing emails, designing presentations, or working in spreadsheets, Copilot offers relevant recommendations and assists by automating repetitive tasks. Many clients have experienced immediate improvements in productivity when employing Copilot. In short, Microsoft 365 Copilot is a robust AI assistant in the workplace, helping employees to achieve more by combining AI capabilities with familiar Microsoft 365 tools.
The 24H2 Enabled CoPilot
Utilizing AI technology, Windows Copilot will be able to understand a range of commands, including the ability to ask for:
- help to find available wireless networks
- system, device, or storage information
- battery information and status
- your IP address
- clean storage
- empty recycle bin
- toggle battery saver
- show startup apps
- turn on narrator, open voice access, or begin voice typing
- turn on the magnifier or change the text size
- start live captions
- turn on high-contrast
Windows Copilot Animations and Features
Also new with the is version: Several animations will play when a user copies text/images, informing the user that Copilot can assist. Hovering over the icon will produce a short jump list with Summarize, Explain, and Edit options for the copied content.
Version 24H2 also adds the setting “Copilot in Windows,” which allows users to enable or disable the Copilot UI from appearing upon startup. Users can also configure chat providers and third-party plugins.
Additional Useful Information about Windows 24H2
Microsoft Windows version 24H2 also alters how Windows Copilot behaves. Beginning with this release, the Copilot interface can be undocked and moved around in a unique and separate app window that can be minimized or blown up to full screen.
Coming Soon? While not yet in testing, Microsoft is rumored to be planning a more advanced 24H2 Copilot that utilizes next-generation AI PCs to bolster productivity across apps, files, and search. One example is AI Explorer, which will give users the ability to locate any word, app, file, or image that was previously open on their PC.
Microsoft typically infuses new updates with quality-of-life improvements, and version 24H2 is no exception.
- Their offline installation interface has received a modern facelift, and a new “Install drivers” button is useful for system builders to cleanly install Windows without drivers.
- Starting with this release, Cortana, Mail, Calendar, Maps, People, and Movies & TV will no longer be installed by default. WordPad will be eliminated in a future update.
- Microsoft has added a Wi-Fi icon animation to the taskbar that plays when connecting to a Wi-Fi network. Right-clicking the icon will present a “Diagnose network problems” menu shortcut.
- Version 24H2 will be the first update to support USB80Gbps speeds, which is a significant version update to the USB4 standard. It will be found on new hardware rolling out this year
Call Alliance IT for a Consultation
Alliance IT employs a team of IT experts who provide in-depth knowledge and guidance for SMBs looking to upgrade their systems and remain competitive. Managed services allow you to optimize your resources and not get left behind technologically—call to learn more today.
