Windows 11 coming later this year; features, timeline, and how to prepare.

Despite the eyebrow-raising statement dropped back in 2015 about Microsoft Windows 10 being the last version of Windows, Windows 11’s release is right around the corner.

The big surprise is, as it turns out Windows 11 is a free upgrade for the machines of all Windows 10 users, and more noteworthy features are going to surface along with this new version, and we’re here for it.

 

That said if you’re on a quest to leave no stone unturned with Windows 11, strap in for a complete guide!

 

The release date

Windows 11 is already available as an Insider Preview build download for the ones who are in the Windows Insider Program. You’ll be able to get your hands on the public beta in July. Although the word is that Windows is coming out this fall, there’s a chance that it’ll be released as early as October.

 

Windows 11 new features

  • Windows 11 features a clean, fluid UI for both work and play. The Mac-like interface boasts rounded corners, a centered Start menu and Taskbar, and soothing pastel shades. There are new productivity features like Snap Navigator, a new Chat app built into the taskbar, new subtle animations when you click and move things around, new “Widgets” panel to personalize your Calendar, Photos, etc. directly from the taskbar, and much more.

 

  • Windows 11 brings out new touch improvements like enabling three or four-finger gestures to swipe away apps and open Task View.

 

  • The brand-new app store, on the other hand, will sweeten the pot for you. It includes flexible features for developers and more new apps. Likewise, you have the ability to download and run Android apps on your Windows PC.

 

  • Windows 11 now sticks with one major update per year, which will give it the upper hand over its counterparts while providing end-user convenience.

 

  • Microsoft Teams is integrated right into the taskbar for better access, and you’ll be accessing Teams from Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS.

 

  • Microsoft Windows lets you set up virtual desktops with Windows 11 in a similar manner to MacOS where you can easily toggle between multiple desktops used for work, personal, school or gaming tasks.

 

  • You can also expand or minimize the apps that are in the taskbar simultaneously for easier task switching. Moreover, you can plug or unplug from a monitor without having to compromise the location of your open windows.

 

  • Windows 11 seems to be the ultimate version for avid gamers since it comes with certain features that have already been flaunted with Xbox consoles. Features like the Auto HDR and DirectStorage will undoubtedly take your gaming experience on Windows PC up a notch.

 

The minimum system requirements

  • A modern 1Ghz 64-bit dual-core processor.
  • 4 GB RAM and 64 GB drive.
  • 9-inch display and 1366×768 resolution.
  • UEFI, Secure Boot & TPM 2.0 compatible.
  • DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WWDM 2.x.

 

Limitations

  • Microsoft Windows 11 OS is only available on 64-bit processors, although the 32-bit apps will work without any issues.

 

  • If you have a CPU older than Intel 8th-generation, it is unlikely that you will be running the official Windows 11 later this year. However, the company will consider Intel 7th-generation and AMD Ryzen 1000 series CPUs.

 

  • The latest 9-inch display size implies that Windows 11 will be off-limits for phones or mini 8-inch tablets.

 

Wrapping Up

Needless to say, Microsoft Windows 11 seems promising with an array of brand-new features, and it’s only a matter of whether we’re up for embracing it or not.

 

References

  1. https://www.cnbc.com/2021/06/11/why-microsoft-is-releasing-a-new-version-of-windows.html
  2. https://www.windowscentral.com/windows-11
  3. https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/windows-11-what-to-know-about-the-beta-download-new-features-device-compatibility-price-and-more/