This release will also include notable improvements for Arm devices, which is a big reason why new devices with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite are launching in the summer. While it's not a new feature, it's been confirmed that the next version of Windows will not support 32-bit Arm apps, following in the footsteps of other Arm-centric platforms like Android and iOS. No more support for 32-bit Arm apps and better Arm optimization This will rely on a new mobile device linking feature that's independent from the Phone Link app. While it's not available for testing, one feature that's been spotted by some keen-eyes fans is the ability to use certain phones as a webcam for your laptop.

On the topic of power, this new update will also bring power settings related to the lid and power button directly into the Settings app, removing the need for the Control Panel page that houses these capabilities. In fact, it seems like Windows Insiders are already testing the RTM build of this update, with build 26100 having been recently released. Currently, the expectation is that the WindUpdate will hit RTM (release to manufacturing) in April, so that PC makers can load it onto their Arm-based PCs launching in June with Qualcomm's new chipset. This new platform will be required for manufacturers shipping devices with Windows 11 version 24H2, which includes all the Windows on Arm devices with the Snapdragon X Elite. However, this release will be a bit different from the usual procedure, because this version is based on a new platform release, codenamed Germanium. It's also expected that the next version of Windows will continue the annual update cycle, similar to what we've been seeing for the past couple of years, despite originally being reported to be switching to a three-year development cycle. That aligns with previous major updates for Windows 11. General availability is expected around the September timeframe.

Windows 11 version 24H2 is expected to launch at some point in the second half of 2024 as the name indicates.

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