Microsoft, or rather a Microsoft employee on Twitter, recently confirmed that the Media Creation Tool (MCT) has not been updated for Windows 11 version 23H2 yet. The update is expected to be completed soon after optimizing Windows Setup. According to Microsoft’s Gabe Frost, who responded to inquiries on Twitter, the package size optimization for 23H2 with MCT is currently underway, and it is estimated to be completed in a couple of weeks, around November 15th.

This information, if communicated earlier, could have saved me significant time and effort. Unfortunately, despite Microsoft’s claim that the MCT was updated, I have been repeatedly downloading it each day, only to find that it has not been updated. It would have been preferable if Microsoft had addressed this issue officially and promptly when they released 23H2 on Tuesday. This situation highlights the ongoing communication problems at Microsoft, which are often downplayed.

Nevertheless, if you visit the Download Windows 11 page on Microsoft.com, you will find three options for directly installing or upgrading to Windows 11 version 23H2. These options include the Windows 11 Installation Assistant, Create Windows 11 Installation Media (using the Media Creation Tool or MCT), and the downloadable ISO disk image. However, only two of the three options actually work. The MCT still generates installation media based on 22H2, despite the note on the page stating the current release as Windows 11 2023 Update | Version 23H2.

In light of this situation, you can take matters into your own hands by creating installation media using the downloadable ISO and a tool like Rufus. This is exactly what I did this past week because I cannot afford to wait for a company that fails to keep its customers informed about crucial updates. It is truly disappointing.