Windows 11 2022 update is already rolling out

The day has finally arrived. Windows 11 is getting its first major update in the form of the Windows 11 2022 Update. That’s right, Microsoft is apparently getting rid of its “semi-annual” naming convention – publicly at least – that would have called this release “version 22H2”. This makes sense given that Microsoft moved to an annual update rate with Windows 11, so there’s no need to specify which semester the update was released in.

Windows 11 was released over a year ago and the 2022 update brings a lot of new features, most of which we’ve covered in detail here. Still, it’s worth reiterating what Microsoft thinks is worth highlighting in this update.

Microsoft emphasized that the goal of Windows 11 is to offer a simpler experience that will make you more productive. As such, the 2022 update brings a host of new features in this area, including improved touch navigation for Snap Layouts, the ability to snap multiple browser tabs in Edge, as well as Focus Sessions and Do Not Disturb.

Microsoft claims that the Windows 11 2022 update brings faster search, an improved Start menu, a variety of widgets, and accessibility improvements.

The Windows 11 2022 update is also positioned as the perfect place for content creators and gamers alike, thanks to the inclusion of Clipchamp, the new Windows Studio Effects tool, and a host of gaming improvements that you can read about here.

In addition, Microsoft is finally fulfilling its commitment to supporting Android apps in Windows 11. The Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) Amazon app store now expands to 31 more countries and will include a catalog of 20,000 Android apps and games.

On the security front, the Windows 11 2022 Update supports presence sensors for Windows Hello for Business, as well as Smart App Control, both on new Windows 11 devices and on devices that have had a clean install of the Windows 11 2022 Update.

Microsoft’s Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer for Windows and Devices noted that:

We’re excited to take the next step with Windows 11 to inspire you to take that journey. Windows 11 was designed to connect people, help them play and have fun, increase productivity, and inspire creativity. Serving over a billion people, Windows is the platform for worldwide innovation. For consumers, Windows 11 will make everyday life easier. For businesses, Windows 11 is the hybrid operating system and the most secure version of Windows. For developers and creators, Windows 11 is an open platform that provides even more economic opportunities for your creations. We will continue to invest in delivering Windows experiences that enrich people’s lives as we strive to meet your growing needs. We can’t wait to see

Like previous updates for Windows, the 2022 update will be available to all eligible users in stages. Although it started rolling out today, you might not get it right away through Windows Update.