Microsoft has announced that Windows 11 24H2 will stop supporting the AC-3 audio codec, known for providing surround sound and also referred to as Dolby Digital.
OEMs, however, can still pre-install this codec. This means that you won’t be able to play files with the AC-3 codec using the built-in Media Player in Windows 11 24H2. Interestingly, most streaming platforms and media companies have already started phasing out the AC-3 codec.
But don’t worry! You can still manually install the codec from the Microsoft Store or use third-party players like MPV to play your files.
Additionally, Windows 11 24H2 will no longer include Cortana, WordPad, and Steps Recorder.
Supported Audio Codecs in Windows 11 24H
The version 24H2 supports a variety of audio codecs including MP3, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, WMA, 3GP, 3G2, and AMR. For video, the supported codecs are MPEG-4, H.264, H.263, VC-1, WMV, DV, VP8, and Motion JPEG.
You can also download additional codec packs from the Microsoft Store, such as MPEG-2 Video Extensions, HEVC Video Extensions, VP9 Video Extensions, AV1 Video Extensions, and Web Media Extensions.
Windows 11 24H2 Availability
The latest build (version 24H2, Build 26100.712) was released to the Release Preview Channel on May 22 and is expected to be available to the public around September or October this year.
Are you ready for these changes in Windows 11?