Introducing Windows 11. All your questions answered in one simple blog post!
When is the new Windows 11 on general release?
Microsoft finally announced the Windows 11 official release date: Oct. 5. 2021
Microsoft's first major operating system update in six years will be available as a free download for existing Windows users starting on that date.
However, the OS won't roll out to every compatible Windows device at once, and it won't have every major new feature promised just yet, Microsoft said in a Tuesday blog post.
Windows 11 Preview
Watch this Windows 11 preview video to see all of the latest features.
While the first general release of Windows 11 will include features like a more streamlined, Mac-like design, an updated Start menu, new multitasking tools and integrated Microsoft Teams, it will not include one of the most anticipated updates: support for Android mobile apps in its new app store. Microsoft also didn't offer a date for when Android apps would be available, either, other than saying that they would roll out in a "preview" test "over the coming months," according to the post.
The New Features include:
By no coincidence there are 11 exciting productivity and experience enhancing features to look forward to:
Beautiful Glass like design. The new design and sounds are modern, fresh, clean and beautiful, bringing you a sense of calm and ease.
New “Start” feature. Start utilises the power of the cloud and Microsoft 365 to show you your recent files no matter what device you were viewing them on.
Snap Layouts, Groups and Desktops, provide an even more powerful way to multitask and optimise your screen usage.
Chat from Microsoft Teams integrated into the taskbar provides a faster way to connect to the people you care about.
Widgets, a new personalised feed powered by AI, provides a faster way to access the information you care about, and with Microsoft Edge’s world class performance, speed and productivity features you can get more done on the web.
Windows 11 delivers the best Windows ever for gaming and unlocks the full potential of your system’s hardware with technology like DirectX12 Ultimate, DirectStorage and Auto HDR. With Xbox Game Pass for PC or Ultimate you get access to over 100 high-quality PC games to play on Windows 11 for one low monthly price. (Xbox Game Pass sold separately.)
Windows 11 comes with a new Microsoft Store rebuilt with an all-new design making it easier to search and discover your favorite apps, games, shows, and movies in one trusted location. We look forward to continuing our journey to bring Android apps to Windows 11 and the Microsoft Store through our collaboration with Amazon and Intel; this will start with a preview for Windows Insiders over the coming months.
Windows 11 is the most inclusively designed version of Windows with new accessibility improvements that were built for and by people with disabilities.
Windows 11 unlocks new opportunities for developers and creators. We are opening the Store to allow more developers and independent software vendors (ISVs) to bring their apps to the Store, improving native and web app development with new developer tools, and making it easier for you to refresh the look and feel across all our app designs and experiences.
Windows 11 is optimized for speed, efficiency and improved experiences with touch, digital pen and voice input.
Windows 11 is the operating system for hybrid work, delivering new experiences that work how you work, are secure by design, and easy and familiar for IT to deploy and manage. Explore Windows 11: More detailed overview about each of the new Windows 11 features.
Will we have to pay?
The short answer is no. If your PC or laptop has the minimum specification, then the Windows 11 OS upgrade is free to eligible MS Licensed users. Not sure if your machine meets the minimum requirement, read on.
What specification do I need to update to Windows 11?
To make sure Windows 11 will work on your current computer, you must have:
At least 4 gigabytes of RAM
64GB of storage
720p display measuring over 9 inches diagonally
Microsoft also says, "Windows 11 Home edition requires internet connectivity and a Microsoft account to complete device setup on first use."
How to prepare?
There are 3 things you can do to prepare for the new update:
Let your staff know it’s happening and when it could happen.(Anytime from 5th October 2021 to mid-2022).
Check their PC/laptop specification to see if they will be eligible for the update.
Ensure all your PCs and laptops have the minimum spec in readiness for the upgrade.
If you're a CJAZ customer, we recommend you get in touch with us first before you install your next Windows Update, so that we can advise you on a smooth rollout. Simply call 020 3950 0377 and we will be happy to help you.
The easiest way to check if your machine has the right specification to run the new Windows 11 specification is to go to your Windows Search menu (bottom left-hand corner of your screen) and search for “Device Specifications” As long as you meet these minimum requirements you’ll be good to go!
Will everyone be upgraded on October 5th?
Just because you have a compatible Windows device doesn't mean you'll be able to run Windows 11 on Oct. 5.
The launch will be "phased and measured," with new eligible devices getting the upgrade first, and the rest getting offered the free upgrade sometime between October and mid-2022, depending on your hardware, age of device and other factors. You'll get a notification from Windows Update letting you know when Windows 11 is available to you, or you can check manually (here's more on how to download Windows 11 when the time comes, and how to try the preview version).
Are you considering upgrading PC's and Laptops?
Before you start buying new devices for your staff, make sure to give our friendly CJAZ Support team a call who can advise whether you really need to upgrade and if so the best machines that will meet your needs and give you the functionality you require.
Have any other questions?
CJAZ Consulting are a Microsoft Silver Partner. We can help answer any questions you may have about MS Teams, how other IT systems might be affected and whether you can expect a smooth roll out with all your staff sharing the same OS system come the end of the year.
Maybe you’re not sure whether you machine meets the minimum requirements, you might be wondering whether now is the time to upgrade some of your old laptops or perhaps you're not sure whether you want to upgrade to the new operating system?
Whatever it is, please give us a call, we're always happy to help.
Call 020 3950 0360
Email info@cjaz.co.uk