Everything You Need to Know About Windows 11

Co-authored by Cory Stillman

Last Updated: November 27, 2021

Microsoft first announced Windows 11 in June of 2021, to be released later in the year. The new version of Windows will be pre-loaded onto new PCs late in 2021, and available for installation on compatible PCs since October 5th, 2021 -- and all compatible users can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. Windows 11 will also be sold as a standalone OS for $110, or $150 for the Pro version, which is suited for businesses and professional settings. With more and more consumers getting their hands on Windows 11, we have gathered everything you should know about the exciting new OS!

Question 1

Question 1 of 6:
Multitasking

1
Windows 11 reinvents Multitasking with newly customizable layouts. Windows 11 builds upon the OS' preexisting ability to pull up multiple windows at once. Users can now customize their desktop by choosing from a number of different layouts, known as "Snap Layouts." ^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Windows 11 also improves the feature create separate desktops for different utilities. You can now have a different desktop for work, gaming, school, etc.
Advertisement

Question 2

Question 2 of 6:
Modernized Design

1
Enjoy the new, modernized UI. Windows 11 introduces a more comfortable interface, with round corners, a redesigned start menu, and taskbar. Everything has been improved to make it more user-friendly, but also ensuring that you are provided with the necessities to personalize your computer to match your needs.
- Most Windows apps have seen a complete redesign, with settings being more interactive, your start menu jumping right to what you need, and your file explorer modernized to help you sort through your files.

Question 3

Question 3 of 6:
Personalized Newsfeed

1
Follow your favorite topics with a personalized newsfeed. Our phones offer us a curated summary of relevant news and weather updates, so why shouldn't our computers do the same? Windows 11 incorporates a personalized feed that you can access from your desktop at any time.
2
Customize your feed with widgets. Windows 11 will continue to introduce new widgets over time, empowering creatives and professionals alike to deliver personalized content of their own.

Advertisement

Question 4

Question 4 of 6:
Updated Microsoft Store

1
Windows 11 completely redesigns the Microsoft Store. The new-look app store has been optimized for speed and ease of use. Microsoft has made it easier to search for apps and content, and has expanded its library to include a variety of first and third-party apps.
- Keeping with their efforts personalize the Windows 11 experience, Microsoft will curate stories and collections for users as they browse the store, offering unique suggestions for apps and content to each individual user.
- Microsoft is also partnering with Amazon to offer Android apps on Windows 11. Users can browse for Android apps on the Microsoft Store, and download them via the Amazon Appstore.
2
Windows 11 is an app developer's dream. The new Microsoft Store will allow app developers to introduce their own commerce into the store, and keep 100% of the revenue. Developers can also still rely on Microsoft's commerce, and opt into an 85/15 revenue share.
- The Microsoft Store on Windows 11 also supports apps built as a wide variety of frameworks, including Win32, UWPS, and many others.
Advertisement

Question 5

Question 5 of 6:
Gaming Support

1
Windows 11 offers unprecedented gaming support. The OS integrates DirectX 12 Ultimate, Microsoft's own software interface that helps enable better graphics and higher frame rates.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Windows 11 will also feature DirectStorage, another software interface that helps shorten load times, and Auto HDR, which allows for a wider, more vivid range of colors.

Question 6

Question 6 of 6:
Microsoft Teams Integration

1
Windows 11 offers unprecedented integration with Microsoft Teams. Teams will be integrated throughout Windows 11, right down to its prominent placement on the Windows Start menu.
- Users will be able to join calls directly from their taskbar, as well as perform more specific tasks like muting yourself, or messaging a co-worker.
2
The new Teams integration also allows you to connect with others no matter what device they are using (Windows, Android, iOS, etc.) If your recipient does not have Teams, they will receive your message in the form of an SMS or an e-mail.
- Windows 11 will also feature a keyboard shortcut for Microsoft Teams. Just press the "Windows" and the "C" button at the same time.
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Question

Will I still have my old files?

WikiaWang

Top Answerer

No, your files will not be deleted! Just think of this as a big Windows 10 update -- you'll keep all of your files unless you choose to clean install your PC.