So it has been officially announced. Windows 11 will be with us November 2021.
Despite Microsoft telling the world 6 years ago that Windows 10 would remain for ever, as usual, its all change and a new operating system will be with us before the year is out.
So what do we know about the latest offering from Microsoft?
Cost
This new OS will be free, with the ability to upgrade from Windows 10 (subject to the below criteria)
Who can upgrade?
Microsoft are being very specific on the hardware required to upgrade. They seem to be following in the footsteps of Apple who each year will relegate hardware as “vintage” and non-upgradeable. This policy will render many computers ineligible for the latest OS. Below are the current minimum requirements
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least two cores on a compatible 64-bit processor
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module 2.0
The above hardware is currently a guide but this is likely to change before the official release date later this year.
What is new in Windows 11?
In essence, not that much. The main changes are the design of Windows. As always, Microsoft cant help but tinker and make the end users life more difficult by moving away from the familiar design. Key changes are:
- Rounded Icons
- Menu bar moved to the centre of the screen
- Ability to retain window sizing when using external additional monitors
- Redesigned Microsoft Windows store
- Widgets are back
Should I upgrade as soon as available?
NO. Microsoft has a proven track record of releasing software with many errors and bugs. It is always our recommendation to wait for at least 6 months for any issues to surface and to be rectified.
Conclusion
At this time there is a Beta release of Windows 11 which gives a preview of what the new operating system will look like. Until the full version of Windows 11 is released and fully integrated with 3rd party applications, we strongly advise against installing in a home or business environment. Given time and further bug fixes, we will provides updates on the rollout of the latest Windows offering.
