Windows 11 Now Official, Brings Fresh Interface, Centrally-Placed Start Menu

[Kool_SRG]

Nearly six years later, the next version of Windows is expected to be called Windows 11, following the numerical sequence of its predecessor.

 

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Microsoft is expected to unveil its “next generation of Windows” at its event scheduled on June 24 at 11 AM ET (8:30 PM IST). As people around the globe eagerly wait for the software giant to officially raise the curtain on the new operating system (OS), here is what they can expect from the Windows event.

When Microsoft had launched Windows 10 in 2015, the OS checked several boxes for features, performance, and user interface (UI) improvements.

Nearly six years later, the next version of Windows is expected to be called Windows 11, following the numerical sequence of its predecessor. A version of the OS leaked last week, offering a peek at the new UI and Start menu.

 

Windows 11’s UI and Start menu bring a lot of new visual elements including a new Start button, cleaner taskbar, centred app icons, simplified Start menu, dark mode, and rounded corners across the OS, The Verge reported.

 

It also appears that the Windows maker has incorporated chunks of its Windows 10X OS in Windows 11. Last month, Microsoft confirmed that it is not launching Windows 10X and said, “We are leveraging learnings from our journey thus far and accelerating the integration of key foundational 10X technology into other parts of Windows and products at the company.”

Microsoft has been working on a UI refresh for quite some time to bring modern designs, new features, icons and animations into its OS, according to a Windows Central report. The software firm’s UI project, internally codenamed ‘Sun Valley’, was expected to be part of a major update for Windows 10, the report noted. However, it seems the UI refresh will make its appearance on Windows 10’s successor.

Last month, during this year’s Microsoft Build, CEO Satya Nadella spoke about Windows and highlighted some of the benefits of the operating system. “I’ve been self-hosting it over the past several months, and I’m incredibly excited about the next generation of Windows,” Nadella said.

He was referring to one of the “most significant updates to Windows of the past decade,” that he said will also unlock greater economic opportunity for developers and creators.

The Redmond, Washington-based firm is said to be working on a new Windows store with a broader array of apps and games. On the developer front, the firm has already made some headway with its announcement in April, to reduce commission for PC games on Microsoft Store to 12% from 30%.

The move could draw a larger proportion of game developers and publishers into its app store. To supplement this, the tech giant could announce some changes to Windows to improve the PC gaming experience. Recently, Microsoft had shared how it is working to bring the Xbox experience to more people around the world.

In addition, the software company is expected to make developer-focused announcements to make it easier for them to work on Windows apps.

“We will create more opportunity for every Windows developer today and welcome every creator who is looking for the most innovative, new, open platform to build and distribute and monetise applications,” Nadella said.

Apart from the UI changes, the new OS is expected to bring performance- and productivity-related enhancements for its growing user base. In March 2020, Microsoft had announced that it reached the milestone of 1 billion Windows 10 active devices. The number has now mushroomed to over 1.3 billion active devices.

A large number of users also raises the question whether it will be a free upgrade for all the billion-plus devices running on Windows 10, for which the support is ending on October 14th, 2025. Since Windows 10’s launch, the company has been introducing new features and providing security patches through frequent updates to its users.

While Windows 11 upgrade is expected to be free for Windows 10 users, the official verdict from the software firm will be out soon. In the meantime, people can listen to the 11-minute-long Windows Startup sounds – slo-fi remix released by Microsoft.

[Kool_SRG]

Microsoft releases another Windows 11 teaser ahead of the event

 

Microsoft has an event lined up in a few hours from now that will showcase Windows 11 to the world, and it wants you to tune in.

In a promo clip posted on its official Windows Twitter account, Microsoft teases the new OS' overhaul as well as hinting that touch is going to be a big part of the new OS.

So far we know that Windows 11 will bring a new look to the taskbar and windows, as well as more advanced options for multiple monitor setups.

 

 

 

[Kool_SRG]

Windows 11 Now Official, Brings Fresh Interface, Centrally-Placed Start Menu

Windows 11 will be available as a free upgrade to Windows 10 users later this year.

Windows 11 is now official. Microsoft's new Windows operating system has debuted nearly six years after the release of Windows 10 that took place in July 2015. The update, which is being called the “next generation” of Windows, comes with a massive redesign over its predecessor, starting from an all-new boot screen and startup sound to a centrally-placed Start menu and upgraded widgets. Windows 11 also removes elements including the annoying “Hi Cortana” welcome screen and Live Tiles. The Redmond, Washington-based company is essentially aiming to counter the likes of macOS and Chrome OS with its latest operating system.

Windows 11 features

One of the most notable changes, which we already saw in a recently leaked ISO, that Windows 11 brings to the users currently running Windows 10 is the new interface. It starts with a fresh setup screen and continues to give a fresh look and feel across all core Windows elements. There are rounded corners on menus and windows that look similar to the recent iPadOS release. You'll also see the Start menu at the centre that is aimed at providing a modern experience.

It is for the first time, perhaps since the release of Windows NT 4.0 that was way back in 1996, when we are not seeing the Start menu on the left side — now located centrally. The transition of the Start menu also brings all the default icons such as Edge and File Explorer to the centre. This new positioning makes Windows 11 more familiar to people who use macOS or Chrome OS. You can, however, change the position and bring the Start button to the left by going in its settings.

 

• Microsoft Rises to Join Apple in Exclusive $2 Trillion Club

The updated Start menu also doesn't include any Live Tiles that were a part of the menu in Windows 10. But to personalise the experience, you will see some recommended apps at the bottom. There is also a dedicated search button next to the Start menu to let users search across apps and preloaded functions on the latest Windows platform.

Windows 11 also comes with new sounds and alerts, including the fresh startup sound. There are subtle changes in terms of gestures as well. Additionally, you'll get new themes, some new wallpapers, and an improved dark mode. Windows 11 also includes an updated widgets experience. Widgets can bring on front by swiping from the left of the screen or can be placed full screen. You're provided with the options to rearrange widgets or resize them — as per your preference. You can also add or remove your widgets that can help you receive the latest news or weather updates.

For an enhanced multitasking experience, the maximize button now lets you split the active screens between multiple areas of the desktop. Microsoft calls this new experience Snap Layouts. These layouts let you simultaneously open multiple different screens on your computer just by hovering your mouse over the maximize button. Once accessed, Windows 11 also remembers your selected Snap Layout for multiple windows and keep them ready along with the apps you were working on there for future access directly from the taskbar. Groups created by Snap Layouts that can be used for future access are called Snap Groups.

Further, Microsoft is improving support for multiple monitors and making it easier for users to work on virtual desktops. The latter looks quite similar to how you can add multiple desktops on Apple's macOS. However, you can also use custom wallpapers for each of your virtual desktop on Windows 11 for even easy access.

 

• Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella Named as Chairman, Succeeds John Thompson

Windows 11 also comes with an improved touch keyboard that includes GIFs integration from Tenor. There are also preloaded virtual keyboards that can be placed anywhere on the screen. Users can additionally use voice dictation support throughout the system. There are also options such as voice typing and voice commands to ease your typing. Further, there are several interface-level tweaks to enable an improved touch experience.

Microsoft faced challenges in convincing manufacturers as well as consumers to use Windows 10 on tablets for a complete touchscreen experience. Those challenges are overcome by bringing new touch targets and a number of underlying improvements that are a part of Windows 11. Resizing on a touchscreen has also been refined. The new operating system also includes gesture writing support, which has become quite common on mobile devices. Haptic feedback has additionally been added when using a stylus pen.

The new multitasking and touch improvements are something that Microsoft initially tried to provide through Windows 10X. However, since that dual screen devices-focussed operating system was never officially launched for the public, the company is now trying to put all of that — and more — in Windows 11.

 

• Microsoft Taking Xbox Games Directly to TVs

Windows 11 also improves the experience for people using multiple monitors. This is something that has become a new normal for many users these days — thanks to the working/ studying from home culture at a large scale. Microsoft has also integrated its collaboration platform Teams within Windows 11 and added a universal mute and unmute functionality to help people make virtual calls with ease. Similarly, there is a Desktop Share feature to let users share their windows with people connected over a virtual meeting. You might miss Skype, though.

Windows 11 includes a Microsoft Teams integration for easy communication with contacts and groups
Photo Credit: Microsoft

 

Microsoft has also enhanced performance for Chromium-based browsers. Further, there are specific enhancements for Microsoft Edge, including improved support for accessing multiple tabs and for machines with limited resources. The Edge browser on Windows 11 also comes with vertical tab support.

Alongside productivity-focussed improvements, Windows 11 has a handful of significant changes for PC gamers. These include support for Auto HDR and DirectX 12 Ultimate. Windows 11 also includes an xCloud integration to enable cloud gaming. Further, there is Xbox Game Pass access for gamers playing a list of popular games on their machines.

Microsoft has also improved its preloaded app store — Microsoft Store — on Windows 11 with new search capabilities and an improved design to give app makers a better reach. The company has additionally introduced a new economic approach, called zero-revenue share, in which it will allow developers to provide their apps through Microsoft Store without taking any commission. This particular change will come into place from July 28 and will allow developers to use either their own a third party commerce platform in their apps and keep 100 percent of their revenue. It's something odd when comparing with the app stores offered by Apple and Google.

Microsoft Store has been updated on Windows 11 with a list of new changes
Photo Credit: Microsoft

 

In addition to provide better reach and introduce new economics for developers, Microsoft Store has a revamped Entertainment tab to serve you with the latest media content — starting from movies and TV shows — across all major streaming services. You can also wirelessly cast the content you have on your Windows 11 device to your smart TV.

Microsoft Store has also integrated the Amazon Appstore to let Windows 11 users get Android apps directly on their computers. Further, Windows developers have been provided with the ability to have their apps available through the Microsoft Store no matter whether they are Win32, .NET, UWP, Xamarin, Electron, React Native, Java, or Progressive Web Apps. Microsoft also announced that Adobe Creative Cloud, Disney+, TikTok, Zoom, and some of its native apps such as Microsoft Teams, Visual Studio, and even Notepad and Paint will be coming to the Microsoft Store on Windows.

Windows 11 has also included various behind-the-scenes updates to deliver overall a faster experience. Microsoft claimed that the new operating system will receive 40 percent smaller Windows updates and those will run in the background to provide a seamless experience to users at the front end. The new version is also touted to deliver better battery life on mobile devices.

Windows 11 availability, free upgrade

Windows 11 will initially be available for testing purposes to Windows Insider members starting next week. It will also be available as a free upgrade to Windows 10 users later this year and come pre-installed on new PCs. Microsoft has also released the PC Health Check app for people to check if their Windows 10 PC is upgradable. It was speculated that the company would also bring the new operating system to Windows 7 and Windows 8 machines. However, Microsoft confirmed to Gadgets 360 that users with a Windows 7 PC that meets the minimum specifications could be upgraded to Windows 11 after purchasing a Windows 10 license.

In 2022, customers will also have the option to purchase Windows 11 at retail and install it on compatible Windows 7 devices. Microsoft has not brought any changes to its Windows SKU offerings — meaning that users would be able to pick Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro versions. This is similar to how Windows 10 was available commercially to customers.

Windows 11 minimum hardware requirements

Microsoft said that it has worked with all major silicon partners, including AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm. However, Windows 11 will not be as lightweight as Windows 10 when it comes to minimum hardware requirements as it will require at least 64-bit x86 or ARM processor, along with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Windows 10, in contrast, required at least 1GB RAM and 16GB storage.

 

[Kool_SRG]

 

Microsoft has announced Windows 11 at its much-hyped virtual event on Thursday. The new Windows version includes a new Start Menu and Taskbar, alongside widgets that will work with developer apps.

The live stream has begun on the Microsoft website with the company’s chief product officer Panos Panay on stage talking about the next generation of Windows. Windows 11 has a new Start menu and a centered taskbar will be a part of the revamped user interface.

Microsoft is also introducing Snap layouts to help users with multi-tasking on Windows 11. The new generation of Windows will also be more touch-friendly, according to the presentation. Teams integration is coming directly to Windows 11. Users will be able to video call anyone; it will not matter if the other user is on a different device, even a Mac.

Windows 11 will be a free upgrade for Windows 10 users

Windows 11 will launch later this year, and it will be available for testing to Windows Insiders next week. The new operating system will be available as a free upgrade for Windows 10 users. 

[BattalaSathi]

2 minutes ago, Kool_SRG said:

Windows 11 Now Official, Brings Fresh Interface, Centrally-Placed Start Menu

Windows 11 will be available as a free upgrade to Windows 10 users later this year.

Windows 11 is now official. Microsoft's new Windows operating system has debuted nearly six years after the release of Windows 10 that took place in July 2015. The update, which is being called the “next generation” of Windows, comes with a massive redesign over its predecessor, starting from an all-new boot screen and startup sound to a centrally-placed Start menu and upgraded widgets. Windows 11 also removes elements including the annoying “Hi Cortana” welcome screen and Live Tiles. The Redmond, Washington-based company is essentially aiming to counter the likes of macOS and Chrome OS with its latest operating system.

Windows 11 features

One of the most notable changes, which we already saw in a recently leaked ISO, that Windows 11 brings to the users currently running Windows 10 is the new interface. It starts with a fresh setup screen and continues to give a fresh look and feel across all core Windows elements. There are rounded corners on menus and windows that look similar to the recent iPadOS release. You'll also see the Start menu at the centre that is aimed at providing a modern experience.

It is for the first time, perhaps since the release of Windows NT 4.0 that was way back in 1996, when we are not seeing the Start menu on the left side — now located centrally. The transition of the Start menu also brings all the default icons such as Edge and File Explorer to the centre. This new positioning makes Windows 11 more familiar to people who use macOS or Chrome OS. You can, however, change the position and bring the Start button to the left by going in its settings.

 

• Microsoft Rises to Join Apple in Exclusive $2 Trillion Club

The updated Start menu also doesn't include any Live Tiles that were a part of the menu in Windows 10. But to personalise the experience, you will see some recommended apps at the bottom. There is also a dedicated search button next to the Start menu to let users search across apps and preloaded functions on the latest Windows platform.

Windows 11 also comes with new sounds and alerts, including the fresh startup sound. There are subtle changes in terms of gestures as well. Additionally, you'll get new themes, some new wallpapers, and an improved dark mode. Windows 11 also includes an updated widgets experience. Widgets can bring on front by swiping from the left of the screen or can be placed full screen. You're provided with the options to rearrange widgets or resize them — as per your preference. You can also add or remove your widgets that can help you receive the latest news or weather updates.

For an enhanced multitasking experience, the maximize button now lets you split the active screens between multiple areas of the desktop. Microsoft calls this new experience Snap Layouts. These layouts let you simultaneously open multiple different screens on your computer just by hovering your mouse over the maximize button. Once accessed, Windows 11 also remembers your selected Snap Layout for multiple windows and keep them ready along with the apps you were working on there for future access directly from the taskbar. Groups created by Snap Layouts that can be used for future access are called Snap Groups.

Further, Microsoft is improving support for multiple monitors and making it easier for users to work on virtual desktops. The latter looks quite similar to how you can add multiple desktops on Apple's macOS. However, you can also use custom wallpapers for each of your virtual desktop on Windows 11 for even easy access.

 

• Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella Named as Chairman, Succeeds John Thompson

Windows 11 also comes with an improved touch keyboard that includes GIFs integration from Tenor. There are also preloaded virtual keyboards that can be placed anywhere on the screen. Users can additionally use voice dictation support throughout the system. There are also options such as voice typing and voice commands to ease your typing. Further, there are several interface-level tweaks to enable an improved touch experience.

Microsoft faced challenges in convincing manufacturers as well as consumers to use Windows 10 on tablets for a complete touchscreen experience. Those challenges are overcome by bringing new touch targets and a number of underlying improvements that are a part of Windows 11. Resizing on a touchscreen has also been refined. The new operating system also includes gesture writing support, which has become quite common on mobile devices. Haptic feedback has additionally been added when using a stylus pen.

The new multitasking and touch improvements are something that Microsoft initially tried to provide through Windows 10X. However, since that dual screen devices-focussed operating system was never officially launched for the public, the company is now trying to put all of that — and more — in Windows 11.

 

• Microsoft Taking Xbox Games Directly to TVs

Windows 11 also improves the experience for people using multiple monitors. This is something that has become a new normal for many users these days — thanks to the working/ studying from home culture at a large scale. Microsoft has also integrated its collaboration platform Teams within Windows 11 and added a universal mute and unmute functionality to help people make virtual calls with ease. Similarly, there is a Desktop Share feature to let users share their windows with people connected over a virtual meeting. You might miss Skype, though.

Windows 11 includes a Microsoft Teams integration for easy communication with contacts and groups
Photo Credit: Microsoft

 

Microsoft has also enhanced performance for Chromium-based browsers. Further, there are specific enhancements for Microsoft Edge, including improved support for accessing multiple tabs and for machines with limited resources. The Edge browser on Windows 11 also comes with vertical tab support.

Alongside productivity-focussed improvements, Windows 11 has a handful of significant changes for PC gamers. These include support for Auto HDR and DirectX 12 Ultimate. Windows 11 also includes an xCloud integration to enable cloud gaming. Further, there is Xbox Game Pass access for gamers playing a list of popular games on their machines.

Microsoft has also improved its preloaded app store — Microsoft Store — on Windows 11 with new search capabilities and an improved design to give app makers a better reach. The company has additionally introduced a new economic approach, called zero-revenue share, in which it will allow developers to provide their apps through Microsoft Store without taking any commission. This particular change will come into place from July 28 and will allow developers to use either their own a third party commerce platform in their apps and keep 100 percent of their revenue. It's something odd when comparing with the app stores offered by Apple and Google.

Microsoft Store has been updated on Windows 11 with a list of new changes
Photo Credit: Microsoft

 

In addition to provide better reach and introduce new economics for developers, Microsoft Store has a revamped Entertainment tab to serve you with the latest media content — starting from movies and TV shows — across all major streaming services. You can also wirelessly cast the content you have on your Windows 11 device to your smart TV.

Microsoft Store has also integrated the Amazon Appstore to let Windows 11 users get Android apps directly on their computers. Further, Windows developers have been provided with the ability to have their apps available through the Microsoft Store no matter whether they are Win32, .NET, UWP, Xamarin, Electron, React Native, Java, or Progressive Web Apps. Microsoft also announced that Adobe Creative Cloud, Disney+, TikTok, Zoom, and some of its native apps such as Microsoft Teams, Visual Studio, and even Notepad and Paint will be coming to the Microsoft Store on Windows.

Windows 11 has also included various behind-the-scenes updates to deliver overall a faster experience. Microsoft claimed that the new operating system will receive 40 percent smaller Windows updates and those will run in the background to provide a seamless experience to users at the front end. The new version is also touted to deliver better battery life on mobile devices.

Windows 11 availability, free upgrade

Windows 11 will initially be available for testing purposes to Windows Insider members starting next week. It will also be available as a free upgrade to Windows 10 users later this year and come pre-installed on new PCs. Microsoft has also released the PC Health Check app for people to check if their Windows 10 PC is upgradable. It was speculated that the company would also bring the new operating system to Windows 7 and Windows 8 machines. However, Microsoft confirmed to Gadgets 360 that users with a Windows 7 PC that meets the minimum specifications could be upgraded to Windows 11 after purchasing a Windows 10 license.

In 2022, customers will also have the option to purchase Windows 11 at retail and install it on compatible Windows 7 devices. Microsoft has not brought any changes to its Windows SKU offerings — meaning that users would be able to pick Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro versions. This is similar to how Windows 10 was available commercially to customers.

Windows 11 minimum hardware requirements

Microsoft said that it has worked with all major silicon partners, including AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm. However, Windows 11 will not be as lightweight as Windows 10 when it comes to minimum hardware requirements as it will require at least 64-bit x86 or ARM processor, along with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Windows 10, in contrast, required at least 1GB RAM and 16GB storage.

 

habba...task bar is in the center anta..adho pedha feature..memu excite avvali...thoo mee bathukulu cheda...Thanks but no thanks, I'll stick to my Linux desktop.

[sri_india]

I think this is time to upgrade my windows 95 

[Kool_SRG]

 

Windows Insider

[Kool_SRG]

 

[Kool_SRG]

[BattalaSathi]

4 minutes ago, Kool_SRG said:

already 2 weeks back ISO leak ayindhi..downloaded, installed in Virtualbox and tried it.  It's ok.  Antha khasem ledu.  Veellu veella athi.  Apple vodu intha kante thopu/stable iOS for Mac calm gaa release chesthadu, no hadavidi.  Veedu inthunte antha chesthadu, mana cricket kapthan lekka...

[Kool_SRG]

1 minute ago, BattalaSathi said:

already 2 weeks back ISO leak ayindhi..downloaded, installed in Virtualbox and tried it.  It's ok.  Antha khasem ledu.  Veellu veella athi.  Appl vodu intha kante thopu/stable iOS on Mac calm gaa release chesthadu, no hadavidi.  Veedu inthunte antha chesthadu, mana cricket kaptha lekka...

Pitcha lite Windows has 85% plus market share..

[bhaigan]

Mac OS copy cat laga undi

[dewarist]

37 minutes ago, sri_india said:

I think this is time to upgrade my windows 95 

you can charge folks to use your PC just for people who want to feel the nostalgia.

Don't upgrade bro

[dewarist]

28 minutes ago, BattalaSathi said:

already 2 weeks back ISO leak ayindhi..downloaded, installed in Virtualbox and tried it.  It's ok.  Antha khasem ledu.  Veellu veella athi.  Apple vodu intha kante thopu/stable iOS for Mac calm gaa release chesthadu, no hadavidi.  Veedu inthunte antha chesthadu, mana cricket kapthan lekka...

Aplees Pan Bwoy spotted

[perugu_vada]

23 minutes ago, bhaigan said:

Mac OS copy cat laga undi

agreed