Microsoft has a habit of backtracking on proclamations about its software, such as … “Windows 10 will be our last Windows operating system”.
Famous last words …
As you may or may not know, given that Microsoft has hyped its newest operating system far less than its predecessors, the company has made Windows 11 available to manufacturers and consumers.
Manufacturers have begun shipping new computers with Windows 11 while availability for upgrades to existing computers depends on where you fall in the phased-in upgrade rollout.
Microsoft calls its latest operating system the “Windows that brings you closer to what you love.”
I won’t pretend to know what such marketing drivel means, so over the next five days we will just answer “The Top 5 Questions You Might Have about Windows 11”, starting with Question 1:
What’s the Difference Between Windows 10 and 11?
Microsoft claims it significantly boosted performance, functionality, and style in Windows 11. Here’s a rundown of the new OS’s major upgrades:
- Windows gets a makeover — If you’ve used Apple or Chrome, you might see similarities between them and Windows 11. Microsoft’s attempts to copy its competitors always seem to be clumsy (i.e., Edge). If I want Apple or Chrome, I’ll just use those. Anyway, Windows 11 also has tightly rounded corners and taskbar icons are permanently centered. But at least the handy Start button lives on.
- Streamlined Productivity Functions — Microsoft made many small upgrades for Windows 11. For one, your PC will now remember the last layout of your choice when docking. Each of your virtual desktops can also have a different background. Also, widgets are back like never before. And Windows 11 features a Snap Layout function that lets users choose from a variety of layout options with a single click.
- Teams Ingtegrated into OS — With hybrid work becoming normal globe-wide, Microsoft upgraded its Teams application. For example, Teams now integrates into the operating system, which allegedly makes it easier to communicate with family, friends, and colleagues.
- Improved Gaming Support — The Xbox app in Windows 11 supports Xbox Game pass and Cloud gaming.
- Android Apps on Your PC — Microsoft has integrated Android apps on Windows 11 computers with a catch … we’re not yet sure if these Android apps will work optimally on a PC.
As always, these upgrades will create conflicts with existing applications and hardware. So, if you need to buy a new computer make sure your existing applications and peripherals will work with Windows 11. For an existing computer, we recommend waiting a couple of months for the bugs to reveal themselves before upgrading.
Tomorrow’s Question — Can My Computer Handle Windows 11?