With the release of Windows 11 24H2, fresh installations now come preloaded with 36 inbox applications that are fully functional without requiring any immediate updates. This is particularly significant for users who either perform a clean installation of Windows 11 or purchase a new PC, as some of these applications previously needed to download updates from the Microsoft Store upon first use.
Recently, Windows Latest highlighted that the Media Creation Tool has been refreshed following the June 2025 Patch Tuesday update, marking its first update since the original rollout of Windows 11 24H2 in October 2024. Generally, updates to the Media Creation Tool signal enhancements, bug fixes, and the introduction of new features. However, this latest version brings additional benefits worth exploring.
In this update, both the Media Creation Tool and the associated ISO images now come equipped with updated versions of inbound applications. Among these, notable packages such as the AV1 Video Extension and AVC Encoder Extension are crucial for the smooth operation of core applications like Photos and Windows Media Player.
Since these applications come integrated and functioning out of the box, users will no longer need to download updates to use them. However, this also means that they will occupy more storage space on your device. Previously, inbox applications were not fully installed, necessitating updates upon app launch. With more features now available, including enhancements seen in the Paint app since October 2024, the space they consume has increased accordingly.
Comprehensive List of 36 Fully Updated Inbox Apps in Windows 11 24H2
The latest iteration of Windows includes a variety of applications, such as Alarms & Clock, Calculator, Sticky Notes, Microsoft To Do, and Notepad, as well as additional support and automation tools. Users interested in photo editing will find essential apps like Photos, Paint, Clipchamp, Camera, Snipping Tool, Media Player, and Sound Recorder.
Moreover, Microsoft offers additional media extensions that are listed as separate items within the Installed Apps page. These include HEIF, HEVC, AV1, VP9, WebP, Raw Image Extension, Web Media Extensions, and the AVC Encoder Extension.
Other notable applications packaged with Windows 11 24H2 comprise Bing Search, Weather, Phone Link, Cross Device Experience Host, Xbox Game Bar, Xbox Speech-to-Text Overlay, Solitaire Collection, Windows Security, the Microsoft Store, App Installer, Store Purchase App, and the Windows Web Experience Pack.
It is important to recognize that most of the applications mentioned can be uninstalled if they do not meet user preferences. For users in Europe, Microsoft has made provisions for uninstalling both the Microsoft Store and Edge browser. This strategic decision to bundle 36 fully updated apps in Windows 11 24H2 aims to enhance security, reducing the risks associated with Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) that previously impacted these older inbox applications, particularly the media extensions.
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