The next evolution of Windows is built on the familiar Windows foundation but re-imagined to boost employee productivity and enhance collaboration on the most secure iteration of Windows yet.
Microsoft has officially announced Windows 11. Here is everything we know about its next Desktop OS, so far;
Release date: October 2021
Price: Free upgrade for existing Windows 10 users
Interface changes: New, rounded design
Redesigned Microsoft store and support for Android Apps
Better Xbox app integration
AutoHDR makes old games look more vibrant
DirectStorage is exclusive to Windows 11
Microsoft Windows 11 is on the way and will be with us before the end of the year. The "What's next for Windows" event on June 24, 2021 had been preceded by an earlier build of Windows 11 leaking just the week before, so it didn't come as too much of a surprise. Indeed Windows Insider beta testers already have access to an early build, and if you want to try it out yourself, you can now directly sign up for the Windows Insider build on the Microsoft Registration web portal.
Watch the official Microsoft Windows 11 Reveal Event below;
Prior to this official announcement, it wasn't clear what the future of the Windows OS would be. The general expectation was that the changes to the Windows UI, codenamed "Sun Valley", would simply roll at as yet another Windows 10 update. In many respects, that's what Windows 11 is, another update to Windows 10, albeit one that Microsoft's marketing department can get behind.
There are a number of changes in store for Windows 11 though, including a new UI, a major update to the Microsoft Store (that will also include native Android application download support), better Xbox app integration, as well as introducing both AutoHDR and DirectStorage support. Microsoft is keen to focus on PC gamers this time around too, stating, "if you're a gamer, Windows 11 was made for you".
Maybe it is about time we had a new version of Windows after all. We think Windows 11 looks great, performs quicker than Windows 10, is a lighter OS requiring less extensive hardware support and best of all, is offered completely free as an upgrade path for current Windows 10 OS licensed users.
As a registered Microsoft Partner, Dreamtech Systems has had the early access Insider Build made available to us to test and try out before golden production release is scheduled for the end-user channel. All we can say is "Whoa! - this OS rocks!"
Most Windows 10 PC's that meet minimum upgrade requirements will be clearly marked with "Free Upgrade to Windows 11" - note, *when available*.
Upgrade rollout plan is being finalized and is scheduled to begin late in 2021 and continue into 2022. Specific timing will vary by device and geographic region. Commercial customers should check with their ICT administrators/departments or professional services partners for their specific rollout plan.
Certain features however do require specific internal hardware configuration, see https://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11-specificat for further information.
So, are you excited for the next version of Windows OS for Desktop? - We sure are!
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