Microsoft has launched Windows 11, a new version of its desktop operating system, and it comes with a lot of improvements.
Notable changes include a revamped and simplified design, performance improvements, new gaming features, major Windows Store changes, Teams integration, and updates to improve multitasking.
The software maker is committing to make it a free upgrade for Windows 10 users. Much like how Windows 10 was free for Windows 7 and Windows 8 users, this new Windows 11 version will be free for existing Windows 10 users.
But you have to meet the minimum requirements for your PC to get this Windows 11 update, which is now a 64-bit CPU, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Windows 11 will be delivered through Windows Update in much the same way as Windows 10 updates have been made available previously.
Outside of how Windows 11 looks, there are also some new productivity tricks. One of the more exciting updates is called Snap Layouts. This allows you to choose how your programs “snap” to various areas of the screen.
For example, you can have one app on the left and then two apps on the right or three apps with equal separation across the screen. What’s more, Windows will remember this layout choice, allowing you to quickly snap everything back later.
Another big productivity change is better memory features for Virtual Desktops. You can have as many VDs as you want and customize them as you like, including the wallpaper.
Windows 11 will also bring Android apps to the Microsoft Store. Interestingly, it will do this through the Amazon App Store, not the Google Play Store. Either way, though, it will allow you to search for and install Android apps right in Windows, just like you would for a Windows app.
When Can I Get It?
The first Windows 11 preview build will be available to testers in the Windows Insiders programme starting from next week.
Following the testing period, it will be released to the general public during the US holiday period, around November or December.
How to Check if Your PC is Eligible For Windows 11
To check if your current Windows 10 PC is eligible for the free upgrade to Windows 11, Microsoft said to visit its website and download the PC Health Check app.