The Windows 11 22H2 Update

The Windows 11 22H2 update will be the next major update in the year 2022 after 22H1.  Ever since April Update for Windows 10, Microsoft introduced the new feature update model which is a new approach. That Windows 11 will follow till Windows 12 going forward, as a result of which users will no longer receive big updates every September. They will receive smaller updates twice a year.  This article covers everything you need to know about the upcoming Windows 11 22H2 update. What it is when to expect it, how to get it sooner if you can’t wait for its official release date, and potential pitfalls you should avoid during installation.

What you need to know about Windows 11 22H2 Update

The Windows 11 22H2 update is the second feature update for Windows 11, following the October 2021 Update. Features and improvements of the new update will be revealed closer to its official release date, which is expected to be in mid-September. Microsoft has confirmed all the major changes with the Windows 11 22H2 update a few weeks ago so that windows-insiders users have enough time to test the new update and report any bugs before its release.  The good news is that, unlike other Updates, the Windows 11 22H2 update should be easier to install on your device.

Top 5 features and major changes we could expect in the New 22H2 update.

1. New Start menu folders

In this new version of windows, 11 22h2 Microsoft is adding new ways to customize the recommend section although it is not possible to remove or disable this feature.

Source: The Verge

Another big change in the Start menu is the ability to create folders and drag and drop multiple apps in the same place in a more organized way. You can create as many folders as you want.

2. New File explorer with tabs on 22H2

Windows 11 version 22H2 also come with the new version of file explorer with some refinements and new most awaited features and improvements. The quick access page is now a new homepage with new icons that include your pin folders as well as recent folders.

Microsoft finally decided to release an updated version of file explorer with tabs in a new navigation pane that works like the experience in the browser instead of having multiple windows of file explorer of the different file paths. Now you can use one window to navigate multiple folders and drive locations.

3. New Task Manager UI and features.

This new major update will also include a new task manager with a more clean UI and refreshments.

Task manager will come with a new settings page that allows you to control different settings including the startup page and the speed for real-time update windows management. The new command bar gives you access to everyday activities including running a new task or ending that task and now supports a new dark theme.

4. New Smart App Control.

Windows 11 22H2 introduces a new feature called smart app control. It is a security feature that blocks untrusted and potentially dangerous applications. You will enable this feature in the Windows security App.

5. Live Caption on 22H2.

A new accessibility feature that allows anyone to better understand audio by viewing captions of spoken content. This feature can be enabled through the accessibility page and you will need some initial packages to download. The caption will be generated automatically at the top or bottom of the screen and you can resize and customize it. You can also block inappropriate language.

When will Microsoft release the Windows 11 22H2 update?

The most likely scenario is that Microsoft will release the Windows 11 22H2 update in mid-September. Since the company has yet to confirm whether it plans to follow the same schedule this year or not. We can’t make any guarantees. The company could also release the new update in the last of 2022, but that’s unlikely seeing how the October 2018 Update launched three months earlier than expected. Several reports came on Twitter claiming that the update will release on 20th September in two phases.

How to get the Windows 11 22H2 update now?

You can try to trick the system, but there’s a small chance that the trick won’t work. Another way to update is by downloading Microsoft’s latest update assistant file which will upgrade your device easily.  However, we recommend waiting for the official rollout of the Windows 11 22H2 update. Yes, it’s frustrating to have to wait longer than usual for the new update to arrive. Although it’s better than taking a risk. There’s also the fact that you can’t do anything with the software even if it does download on your device. Remember, it’s not ready yet, so installing it would be a big mistake. Instead, you’ll have to wait until it’s fully ready and Microsoft confirms that there are no issues. Until then, you can check out the latest features and improvements that are likely to make it to the Windows 11 22H2 update.

Problems and bugs you might encounter during installation

The most common problem that users encounter during installation is that the Windows Update process gets stuck. If that happens, you’ll have to troubleshoot the installation and find a way to get it unstuck. The best way to do that is to reset the Windows 11 installation and start over again. If you have important data on your device, make sure to back up all your files and folders.

Final Words: Is it worth installing the Windows 11 22H2 update?

It depends. If your installation fails. You don’t have a choice but to upgrade to the latest or downgrade to the former version. That said if you’re on the 22H1. You can choose to wait for the new update to be released and then install it whenever you’re ready.  In that case, you’ll just have to wait a few hours for the update to download on your device and then follow the on-screen instructions to proceed.