Microsoft released Windows 11, version 23H2 to the Release Preview Channel on September 26, 2023. This update was delivered as an enablement package and was expected to be released in the fourth quarter of 2023. However, the full release of Windows 11 23H2 was expected to become available before the end of 2023.
Please note that these dates are subject to change and it’s always best to check the official Microsoft website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The Windows 11 23H2 update, also known as the October 2023 update, brings a host of new features and improvements:
- Windows AI Copilot: This is a new AI assistant that replaces Cortana. It can help users with changing settings on their PC, launching playlists in Spotify, summarizing documents, texts, and webpages, and even initiating Snap assist and other Windows functions.
- New File Explorer: The File Explorer has been revamped with a new user interface.
- Windows Backup Tool: A new tool for backing up your data.
- Taskbar Ungrouping & Labels: This feature allows for better organization of your taskbar.
- Support for 7Zip and RAR Archive Formats: Windows 11 now natively supports these popular archive formats.
- Dynamic Lighting, Presence Sensing, Passkeys Security Support, Dev Drive: These are additional features that enhance the user experience2.
- RGB Paint gets a big upgrade: This update introduces AI features in Paint.
The update was made public on September 26 as an optional preview update. To get this update, you can head to Windows Update and toggle the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option to on, and check for updates1. The download and install process will only take a few minutes.