Microsoft just introduced Windows 11, the next major Windows update at its event, as expected. This brings a simplified design and user experience, Start menu in the centre, new tools like Snap layouts, Desktops, and a new more-intuitive redocking experience, option to connect instantly right from your desktop with Microsoft Teams, and more.
The Start button and taskbar have moved to the centre, which makes it easier to quickly find what you need, says Microsoft. Start now uses the cloud and Microsoft 365 to show you your recent files no matter what platform or device you were viewing them on earlier, even if it was on an Android or iOS device.
New tools include Snap Layouts, Snap Groups and Desktops that provide better multitasking and help you organize your windows and optimize your screen real estate. You can also create separate Desktops for each part of your life, such as work, gaming, or school, and easily switch between them.
Widgets provide a curated news feed powered by AI. Windows 11 comes with an all-new Microsoft store that has been rebuilt for speed, variety and convenience, says Microsoft. It features a wider catalog of first and third-party apps and also brings support for Android apps.
Windows 11 will offer immersive gaming experience with:
- DirectX 12 Ultimate, where users can enjoy breathtaking immersive graphics at high frame rates.
- DirectStorage allowing for faster load times and more detailed game worlds.
- Auto HDR providing a wider, more vivid range of colors for a truly captivating visual experience.
- Access to over 100 high-quality PC games and new games, which are added all the time and made available to Xbox Game Pass for PC or Ultimate customers.
System requirements
Basic requirements for installing Windows 11 on a PC include 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster processor with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC), 4GB RAM, 64 GB or larger storage, UEFI, Secure Boot capable system firmware, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver, High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per colour channel, internet connectivity and a Microsoft account to complete device setup on first use for Windows 11 Home.
You can also download the PC Health Check app to find if your PC is eligible for the upgrade.
Roll out details
Windows 11 will be available through a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 PCs and on new PCs beginning this holiday and continuing into 2022. Early build of Windows 11 will be available through Windows Insider Program early next week.