Microsoft has sent the next big Windows 11 update to the Release Preview channel for Windows Insider users. The update is also available to companies registered with the Release Preview channel for Windows Insider for Business, as well as through the Windows Server Update service and Azure Marketplace.
This is a major milestone for the operating system, as it indicates that development of this version is largely over. From now on, bug fixes and minor updates should be rolling out across this version of Windows 11. It also means that the update may be available for non-Windows Insider subscribers soon.
The Windows 11 22H2 update is expected to be available in the coming months. It includes a number of significant changes to the operating system, including new Start Menu folders, updated touch gestures, and drag-and-drop to the taskbar.
You can wait for the company to officially release the update through Windows Update. You can also get the final version, build number 22621, through the Windows Insider option inside the Windows Update section of Windows 11.
Just follow the instructions to sign up for Windows Insider, and make sure the Release Preview ring is selected.
And the new version of the operating system adds a new family app. And it comes with Clipchamp video editor installed by default.
Windows 11 22H2 includes a new Spotlight wallpaper feature, which cycles through the wallpapers you normally find on the Lock screen.
Live Captions are also included in Windows 11 22H2, a useful feature for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or anyone who wants to add captions automatically.
Captions can be created across the device from any audio content. Captions can also float in a window or be displayed at the top or bottom of the screen.
Task Manager also gets a major overhaul in Windows 11 22H2, with a new dark mode and much improved layout.
Windows 11 update is big enough to be installed early
It includes a new command bar to match the dark theme, along with an efficiency mode that lets you limit apps from consuming system resources.
And if you’re a fan of Snap Layouts in Windows 11, they’ve got improvements in this update to let you drag an app to the top of the window and reveal all the layouts you can use.
Microsoft is also working on improving its focus feature to include Do Not Disturb mode. This mode makes it much easier to quickly silence notifications so that you only see the important ones.
The company has also brought back the drag-and-drop feature to the taskbar in Windows 11, allowing you to drag files into applications like Photoshop.
The new Start Menu folders also allow Windows 11 users to customize the pinned section of the Start Menu into a precise selection of folders.
Windows 11 22H2 will be officially released across devices later this year. Most likely in the September time frame.
