Windows 11 22H2 is complete and Microsoft has officially declared Build 22621 an RTM (Manufacturer Release). This is the operating system’s first major update since its October 2021 rollout, but it doesn’t really come with a ton of new features or significant improvements.
The commercial name of Windows 11 version 22H2 is not yet known, but it is now being rolled out to testers in the Release Preview Channel. Like any major Windows Update, Microsoft is also testing a new version of Microsoft’s graphics driver architecture, and it’s apparently called WDDM 3.1.
The new WDDM 3.1 compliant drivers fix several bugs, support a handful of new titles, and provide support for Windows 11 22H2. Driver support is apparently vital for anyone wanting to test the new operating system, and it also gives companies feedback to resolve any performance issues.
As we reported recently, Nvidia has already released WDDM 3.1 and Windows 11 22H2 ready drivers for enterprise customers. And now the company is working on consumer-oriented GeForce drivers with special support for 22H2. In addition, Nvidia’s leaked drivers also include support for WDDM 3.1.
It is worth noting that this new driver has been leaked online and is not an official release. Right now, consumer graphics cards don’t officially offer good support for Sun Valley 2, but with drivers leaked online, we can expect Nvidia to roll out compatible game drivers in a few weeks.
In an earlier document, Microsoft confirmed that it will actively accept drivers until at least September 5. This means companies have plenty of time to prepare their drivers for the next version of Windows 11.
AMD’s WDDM 3.1 ready drivers
Windows 11 preview builds are now rolling out AMD’s driver 31.0.12000.20010 driver with WDDM 3.1 support. The update apparently improves the performance of AMD GPUs in OpenGL apps, according to reports from testers.
Changelog for Nvidia or AMD driver is currently not available.
In addition to WDDM 3.1, the new Windows 11 version includes a number of changes, including a new Task Manager, features for Windows functions such as the taskbar and Start menu, general improvements, faster animations, context menu improvements, a new Media Player default, and more. much more.