Processes in Microsoft 365 for setting up Office apps, redeeming product keys, and activating licenses.
So here comes another random fix that worked for me. YMMV
I use a little software called DoNotSpy11 to control a lot of Windows 10 less desirable activities. For kicks, I turned off this software's changes because there are settings that can affect updates and customer experience (I've been using this software for years and have never had an issue updating prior to this specific error). I restarted and low and behold, my 2024 pre-release updated like a boss. Then I turned DoNotSpy11's changes back on, and it is still updating properly. ?!
Obviously, I can't explain this.