Microsoft has recently announced in a quarterly support document that starting with version 24H2, Windows 11 will no longer support the AC-3 audio codec. This codec, also known as Dolby Digital, is used for multi-channel audio or surround sound. Despite this change, OEMs will still have the option to pre-install the AC-3 codec.
Impact on Media Player and Streaming Platforms
With this update, users will no longer be able to open files that use the AC-3 codec with the Media Player in Windows 11 24H2. It's worth noting that most streaming platforms and media companies are moving away from the AC-3 encoder, as it is being phased out.
Additional Codec Packs from Microsoft Store
For those who still need to access files with the AC-3 codec, there are options available. Users can manually install the codec from the Microsoft Store or opt for a third-party player such as the MPV player that supports the codec.
Other Exclusions in Windows 11 24H2
In addition to the AC-3 encoder, the upcoming Windows 11 24H2 will reportedly exclude other features such as Cortana, WordPad, and Steps Recorder.
Release Timeline
The Windows 11, version 24H2 (Build 26100.712) was made available in the Release Preview Channel on May 22. It is expected to be released to the general public later this year, likely around September or October.
Included Codecs in Windows 11 24H2
The following audio and video codecs will be included in Windows 11 24H2:
- Audio Codecs: MPEG-1, MPEG-2 Audio (MP3, MP2), Advanced Audio Coding (AAC, M4A), Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC), Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC), Waveform (WAV), Windows Media Audio (WMA), 3GP, 3G2, Adaptive Multi-Rate (AMR)
- Video Codecs: MPEG-4, H.264, H.263, VC-1, Windows Media Video (WMV), DV, VP8, Motion JPEG
Installable Codec Packs from Microsoft Store
For additional codec support, users can install various codec packs from the Microsoft Store. These include:
- MPEG-2 Video Extensions
- Adds support for MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 video formats.
- HEVC Video Extensions
- Adds support for HEVC (H.265) video format.
- VP9 Video Extensions
- Adds support for VP9 video format.
- AV1 Video Extensions
- Adds support for AV1 video format.
- Web Media Extensions
- Adds support for OGG audio and video formats, including the OGG container format, the Vorbis audio codec, and the Theora video codec.
