Microsoft revealed Windows 11 yesterday and I have to admit, I felt very emotional listening to Panos Panay, their Chief Product Officer, talking about the motivation behind developing this product.
Modern, Fresh, Clean, Beautiful
The goal for Windows 11 is to evoke emotion in the user; welcoming you, putting you at the centre and making the experience personal, for you! Particularly given the shift in how we use our PCs over the past year and a half...
Microsoft claim they have been inspired to build the "Windows of tomorrow" to provide us with a space that feels familiar. A space to build, create, learn, play, produce and connect in all new ways. I am inspired and can't wait to get my hands on it!
Panos eloquently and passionately describes how "for the last 35 years, Windows has been part of our lives, a driving force for innovation, an enduring platform for creation, a home to billions. It helps us do our jobs, live our dreams & connect with people we love."
If you get a chance, check out their launch event. It's impressive, it's informative, and yes, it's emotional.
For the more technical spec driven folks, here are (just some of) the highlights...
Introducing Windows 11 - bringing you closer to the things you love
Refreshed User Interface & Features
- Faster over all, from waking up to browsing, to searching online or in files.
- Windows updates are 40% smaller and a lot more efficient, ticking along in the background.
- It uses less energy with more battery life, making Windows more responsible.
- Importantly, Windows 11 is the most secure Windows yet.
- New features for productivity – Simple Start Menu, Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, Task Switching ease, and more...
- Windows widget – “a sheet of glass” powered by AI, delivering curated, personalised and relevant content.
- And the list goes on...
Teams integration directly into Windows
- Teams chat software will integrate directly into the operating system.
- Windows 11 will provide a "one-touch” experience for launching Teams communications — including chat, call and video calls.
- The teams icon front & centre on the task bar for more convenient access.
Microsoft Store overhaul
- The overhaul is “making space for more content”.
- The new Windows Store will let software developers use their own in-app payment systems and pay no commissions to Microsoft.
- It has the ability to find & run Android mobile apps and games on Windows, thanks to integration with Amazon & Intel.
Gaming
- Microsoft's upgraded operating system may also appeal to individuals, with new features for gamers such as an Xbox app and better gaming performance.
Content Creation
- New tools for tipping content creators - including local news outlets - directly in the Windows 11 operating system.
Timeline
- Microsoft announced, the first builds of Windows 11 will begin rolling out to Windows Insider testers early next week, and Windows 11 will be generally available by the end of the year as a free update for Windows 10 PCs.
- They also disclosed that, Windows 11 will only see one major feature update per year, in contrast to the twice-a-year feature updates for Windows 10.
For more information check out the Microsoft Windows 11 product page.
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