After first having announced Windows 11 this summer, Microsoft can now confirm that the operating system, which will be the successor to Windows 10, will be launched on October 5 this year.
The operating system will be available as a free upgrade to supported devices – more on that later in the article – at the same time as new PCs are launched with Windows 11 on board.
Lifts on the competitors
Rolled out in waves
While Windows 11 officially launches on October 5, this does not necessarily mean that the update is in Windows Update on day one for all Windows 10 users.
You are primarily dependent on having a compatible PC, in addition, Microsoft is rolling out updates in waves, which means that some get it before others.
Microsoft explains that new PCs can upgrade first. Then it’s time for the current Windows 10 devices, and when Windows 11 is available for your PC, the update is ready in Windows Update.
However, do not disregard the fact that you can install the update manually via Microsoft SupportAssistant, as before.
The company expects that by mid-2022, all compatible devices can be upgraded to Windows 11.
– After everything we have learned from Windows 10, we want to make sure we give you the best possible experience, writes Aaron Woodman, Head of Windows Marketing at Microsoft, at Windows Experience Blog.
TEST: We have been waiting for this
Missing great news
Among the news in Windows 11 is a new design with rounded edges, centered taskbar and a new start menu. A new Snap layout, updated Microsoft Store and Widgets is also in place.
One of the news that is not available at launch is support for Android apps.
Microsoft announced earlier this year, in collaboration with Intel and Amazon, that Windows 11 will support Android apps, which will definitely provide a replenishment of apps in the Microsoft Store.
Unfortunately, this will not be available at launch, but Microsoft says that Windows Insiders, ie those who are part of Microsoft’s test program, will test the feature in the coming months.
This should make Mac users jealous
Not everyone can upgrade
As for which Windows 10 devices can be upgraded to Windows 11, the requirements are that the PC must have a newer processor and a so-called TPM 2.0 chip.
At the same time, Microsoft states that incompatible PCs, for example if they only have a TPM 1.2 chip, can install Windows 11 manually. The downside is that these users may not be able to access Windows Update and thus not install updates to the operating system.
In any case, it is worth noting that even if your PC cannot be upgraded to Windows 11, it will still run Windows 10, be supported and receive updates until October 14, 2025.
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