Microsoft's latest Windows 11 developments present a contrasting picture, with significant improvements in Arm PC support alongside concerning issues in the 24H2 update. This duality highlights the challenges and progress in Microsoft's evolving Windows ecosystem.
Windows 11's Enhanced Arm Support
Microsoft has made substantial progress in addressing compatibility issues for Arm-based Windows PCs through the latest Insider Preview Build 27744. The updated Prism emulator now supports crucial CPU extensions including AVX, AVX2, BMI, FMA, and F16C. This advancement enables Arm PCs equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs to run demanding applications like Adobe Premiere Pro 2025 and popular games such as Starfield and Helldivers 2, marking a significant step forward in Windows on Arm capabilities.
Critical Issues Plaguing Windows 11 24H2
The Windows 11 24H2 update, released on October 1, 2024, has encountered numerous significant problems. Users are experiencing issues ranging from system file checker malfunctions to network connectivity problems. Particularly concerning are the blue screen occurrences affecting systems with specific Intel processors and Western Digital SSDs. The update has been so problematic that Microsoft has had to pause its rollout for certain PC configurations.
Notable Technical Complications
Among the most impactful issues are the broken clipboard history functionality, printer setup problems on ARM-based Copilot+ PCs, and network sharing difficulties. The System File Checker has been caught in a loop of false positives, while some users face internet connection issues where they cannot obtain valid IP addresses. These problems affect core Windows functionality and productivity features that users rely on daily.
Recommendations for Users
Given the extensive list of known issues, it would be prudent for users to defer installing the Windows 11 24H2 update until Microsoft addresses these problems. While the improvements for Arm-based systems show promise, the current state of the 24H2 update suggests waiting for stability improvements before deployment. Users should monitor Microsoft's Known Issues and Notifications page for updates on fixes and compatibility improvements.