Microsoft confirms the success of Windows 11 and announces new features
31 January, 2022
Microsoft announces new improvements and additions to Windows 11.
–
In recent years, the personal computer market has experienced its biggest growth in a decade, and Windows has been the leader of that growth. Specifically, in 2021, global PC sales have exceeded 340 million, a figure that represents 27% more compared to 2019, according to Canalys. Also, more than 1.4 billion Windows devices are activated each month. And, generally speaking, users spend 10% more time on their computer than before the pandemic.
The change in demand
This structural change in demand is mainly due to three trends. First, and as expected, the pandemic has triggered hybrid learning and telecommuting. Therefore, users have had to adapt to the circumstances, starting by purchasing a PC for personal use and using communication and development solutions such as Microsoft Teams. In fact, this tool has seen how its use multiplied by six during the last two years.
Another cause that has driven a change in demand is the new entertainment habits. The number of users viewing content on platforms like Netflix, HBO, and YouTube on Windows has increased 70% since the start of the pandemic. In this sense, the monthly game minutes also experienced a growth of more than 35%.
Finally, the third reason to which this change in trends is related is the acquisition of new consumption habits for daily tasks. That is, tasks such as reserving a medical appointment or a restaurant table and going to the supermarket or the gym can be managed online. A case that exemplifies this trend very well is the use of telemedicine. This has multiplied by 3 and has managed to register a growth of more than 500% in users who buy online and pick up in store, compared to the levels of two years ago.
The rise of Windows 11
Windows 11 is proving to be capable of adapting to the needs of each user in a simple and comfortable way. This fact, added to the leading role that PCs have acquired, has allowed that during this quarter Microsoft has detected a growth of almost 50% in people who use their PC for professional and educational environments or for gaming.
Panos Panay, Product Director for Windows and Microsoft Devices, assures that the demand and preference for Windows 11 (released in October 2021) is a reality. In this sense, he explains: «The percentage of users who have chosen to upgrade to Windows 11 is already twice as fast as Windows 10. In addition, it has achieved the highest product quality and satisfaction scores of any version of Windows. It has also made it easier for users to spend 40% more time on their PC compared to Windows 10. This is due to improvements in areas such as multitasking and productivity-enhancing features.”
The strength of the Windows ecosystem
Windows 11 is the most secure and inclusive edition in Microsoft history. What’s more, Windows offers a wide and open ecosystem with all kinds of options in terms of shape, models or prices. In fact, during the celebration of CES 2022, companies such as Acer, AMD, ASUS, Dell, HP, Intel, Lenovo, Qualcomm or Razer presented innovations in Windows computers focused on personal use. Additionally, Lenovo announced the first device available with Microsoft Pluto. All this is a clear demonstration of the possibilities that Windows provides, since it is not only suitable for the range of Microsoft surface devices.
On the other hand, Windows helps improve traffic in the newly redesigned Microsoft Store. Specifically, it has managed to multiply it by three, creating greater economic opportunities for creators and developers, both with new applications and with new storefronts.
In continuous innovation
Looking ahead to next month, Microsoft plans to bring new experiences to Windows. Among the news he has in mind is a public preview of how AndroidTM apps can be used on Windows 11 through the Microsoft Store and partnerships with Amazon and Intel. It is also committed to incorporating taskbar improvements, such as the mute function or call cancellation. Finally, it adds simplicity to window sharing, adds the weather to the taskbar, and introduces two new and redesigned applications: Notepad and Media Player.
However, this is not all. The company has big plans for this year and the following. Mainly, intends to continue investing in offering new and better experiences to Windows so that they enrich and inspire people’s lives while meeting their needs.
In this sense, Panos Panay, director of Product, Windows and Devices of Microsoft, declares: «Windows remains the backbone of innovation, a destination for gaming, creativity and exploration, and the gateway to the Metaverse. 2021 was an amazing year for Windows and in 2022 we will continue our journey to empower every person and organization on the planet«.
*For more information: microsoft.com/es
Sonitron
31.01.2022
Related
–
