Windows 11’s size is increasing, growing by nearly 10% compared to its predecessor, the last release of Windows 10. The latest release of Windows 11 version 23H2 ISO is approximately 6.24GB, which is about 7.586% larger than Windows 10 22H2. This increase may seem small, but when compared to earlier versions of Windows 10, it becomes more significant.

The size of the Windows 10 22H2 ISO is 5.8GB, making it about 7.586% smaller than Windows 11 version 23H2. Although this increase may appear insignificant, it highlights a consistent growth trend in the size of Windows operating systems.

For instance, Windows 10 version 1703 (Creators Update) was less than 4GB in size, and we have seen a steady increase with each subsequent update. When we reached Windows 10 22H2 (the last update) in November 2022, there was a noticeable jump in size, reaching 5.8GB.

A similar trend can be observed in Windows 11. Data from Windows Latest shows that the ISO sizes for Windows 11 are as follows:

– Windows 11 21H2 English (all editions) 64-bit – 5.7GB
– Windows 11 22H2 English (all editions) 64-bit – 5.8GB
– Windows 11 23H2 English (all editions) 64-bit – 6.24GB

This data clearly shows an upward trend. While some were surprised to see Windows 11 ISO files in the 6.22GB range, the fact that Windows 11 23H2 is 7.586% larger than the previous version of Windows 10 is a continuation of this trajectory.

The increase in Windows 11 23H2 size can be attributed to various features, such as the new File Explorer built using WinSDK. This enables the use of new generations of APIs and modern XAML controls. The new Home page in the File Explorer, the details pane, and the recommended feed are all powered by XAML.

Additionally, the Windows 11 2023 Update introduces a new “Home” panel in the Settings app, which uses “cards” to display relevant information from Microsoft 365, including current status and benefits. Users can also directly access OneDrive’s cloud storage from the Settings app.

Windows has been growing in size and features with each feature update, but it has also faced bloatware issues. Although Microsoft is working to reduce bloatware by removing apps like Movies & TV and Maps, some believe that these efforts are insufficient.

What are your thoughts on Windows 11’s bloatware problem? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.