After several leaks, Microsoft is officially launching its next big operating system release called Windows 11. The big focus for the new Operating system is a simplification of the Windows user interface, a new Windows Store, and improvements to performance and multitasking. Windows 11 will also include support for running Android apps for the first time.
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The biggest change on Windows 11 is the new Start menu and updated Start button that are both centered on the taskbar. This UI is very similar to what we first saw in Windows 10X we see that most of the UI work that went into Windows 10X is appearing in Windows 11.
Snap Layouts
Another cool feature is something Microsoft is calling Snap Layouts, which allows you to quickly snap apps into the various modes that Windows 11 supports. This new version of Windows 11 will also remember where your apps are stored, thanks to something called Snap Groups.
It looks like a useful way to support multiple monitors and ensure that apps always open on the correct screen. That’s particularly helpful if you’re using a laptop hooked up to a monitor or a traditional desktop machine with multiple displays.
Performance is also a big focus for Windows 11. Windows updates are 40 percent smaller and more efficient as they now happen in the background. Hopefully, that will mean Windows 11 doesn’t disturb you in the middle of work.
Teams directly integrated into Windows 11
For those who do a lot of video calling, Microsoft is also integrating Microsoft Teams directly into Windows 11 for both consumers and commercial users. Teams is integrated directly into the taskbar, allowing Windows 11 users to call friends, family, or co-workers. It’s clear that this is a big shift away from Skype, which was bundled as part of Windows 10.
There are also windows Widgets and touch gestures are also a big part of Windows 11. Widgets is a personalized feed, powered by AI, and it builds on the widgets we’ve seen Microsoft introduce in Windows 10.
Finally, one of the biggest parts of Windows 11 is the new store and support for Android apps on Windows. The Microsoft Store is redesigned and will support a whole host of apps that haven’t typically been available in the Windows app store. That includes apps from Adobe Creative Suite, and Android apps including TikTok and Instagram.
The company has not communicated any release date for Windows 11 yet, but Microsoft has promised to make it available as a free upgrade to Windows 10 users later this year.
