UPDATED 11/4/2022: Windows 11 22H2 (2022 Update) is available starting September 20, 2022. It represents the first major update of the new generation of Windows, introducing a new set of features and enhancements to improve security, productivity, and the overall user experience.
On September 20, Microsoft made available the Windows 11 2022 Update as a free upgrade for devices already running Windows 11 21H2 (and those compatible computers running Windows 10) that are known to have a smooth upgrade experience. Over time, the update will continue to expand to more devices based on hardware eligibility, reliability metrics, age of the hardware, and other factors. Then sometime during the first half of 2023, Windows 11 22H2 will be fully available.
Like previous releases, you will receive a notification to download the new version manually through Windows Update. If you are a “seeker,” you can force the upgrade by clicking the Check for updates button in the Windows Update settings and then the Download and install button. Alternatively, you can install the new update using a USB installation media or ISO file to perform an in-place upgrade or clean installation. In addition, you can use the Installation Assistant to upgrade.
This guide highlights the improvements as they appear in previews through the Windows Insider Program and will be updated regularly to reflect the changes. Last updated on November 4, 2022, with the changes available to build 22622.675 in the Release Preview Channel.
These are the new features for Windows 11 22H2:
- New Start menu folders to group apps.
- New option to change the number of pins in the Start menu.
- Taskbar ability to drag and drop files and apps.
- Taskbar Overflow menu to hide apps that don’t fit.
- New Snap layouts drag and drop interface.
- New Task Manager with a modern interface.
- New Live captions feature to improve understanding of spoken content.
- New Voice access feature to control a device with voice.
- New touch gestures for tablets.
- News Smart App Control (SAC) feature to block dangerous apps.
- Legacy interface with visual changes.
- Updated Focus feature with focus session integration.
- Updated File Explorer with tabs and redesigned navigation pane.
- Updated Quick Settings with options to control Bluetooth devices.
- Updated Print Queue and Print dialog apps with automatic printer detection.
- Improved power management tweaks to reduce energy composition.
- Option to uninstall updates from the Settings app.