This is Microsoft’s pride and joy
On the occasion of a bumpy online event with many streaming dropouts, Microsoft presented the next generation of the Windows operating system on Thursday. It goes by the simple name Windows 11.
Microsoft’s online event has demanded a lot of patience from viewers around the world. The live stream bumped and stumbled. Sometimes there were longer dropouts every few seconds. Still, it was worth it, because the first impression of the new Windows 11 is more than good. Many of our expectations from the previously available leaks have been confirmed.
The first thing you notice about the new Windows 11 is the significant redesign of the design. In places it is reminiscent of macOS 11 Big Sur and shows clear reminiscences of Apple’s glass design from the noughties, but looks much fresher. Translucent surfaces will still work in 2021.
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Windows 11 – for every device
This is what the new Windows 11 start screen looks like. (Image: Microsoft)
Microsoft has created a surface that actually deserves the label “For every device” for the first time. Whether on a notebook, a convertible, a tablet or a large screen on the desktop PC – Windows 11 looks like it was made for it.
The implementation of pen and handwriting support Ink, which used to be rather awkward in the past, looks natural under Windows 11 and not like a subsequent attachment. Windows 11 now also gives haptic feedback when using a pen.
Window management is now a strength of Windows
Windows 11 looks equally good on all device classes. Microsoft hadn’t done that so well with previous generations. (Image: Microsoft)
When redesigning the system, the manufacturer apparently also thought of situations in which the work device changes – for example when an external monitor is plugged in. Windows 11 reacts to this dynamically, rebuilds the windows accordingly and also rebuilds them when the display is unplugged. That looks very harmonious.
The new window management can also convince on a single display. Window arrangements can be saved and called up using so-called snaps. For example, three windows next to each other or other combinations can be installed with a click.
Windows 11 integrates many previously independent apps and concepts
Windows 11 frees the widgets. (Image: t3n / Microsoft)
The taskbar is now more similar to the dock from macOS because it is placed in the middle. The start symbol is still there, it still opens the menu and the search slot. The look is more like that of a modal window than that of a menu that comes up from below. In general, the UI elements in Windows 11 float confidently over the background.
Microsoft has revised the widgets and released them from the rigid notification area. They look very similar to those on iPadOS. The notification area can now cover the entire screen and becomes a widget feed that Windows 11 is supposed to curate using AI. The manufacturer has also completely revised the Microsoft Store in the new design system. It now acts more like a system function than a separate app.
Microsoft has done the same with a few other apps. Teams is now integrated into the system, as is the Xbox app and game streaming via xCloud. The Edge browser can hardly be identified as an independent app either.
Android apps are coming to Windows 11
Android apps are coming to Windows 11. (Screenshot: t3n / Microsoft)
It is worth taking a look at the content of the Microsoft Store. The manufacturer has put it very openly – probably as a sign against Apple. There are practically no restrictions. Even PWAs can be sold through the store. Developers are allowed to use their own payment systems, Microsoft does not charge any commission.
The openness is also evident in the fact that Android apps work under Windows 11. They are listed in the store and then installed via the integrated Amazon app store. Windows 11 now has apps like Tiktok or Instagram to offer on the desktop. Once installed, the apps are available like any other app via the start menu or the taskbar.
Big, but not gigantic
Windows 11 is a big update. However, it is not a completely new user experience, as Microsoft boss Satya Nadella wants to call it. It can be clearly seen that the manufacturer has borrowed from Apple and Google and implemented it for its own platform.
Ultimately, of course, it is also about market shares and they can be maintained if your own system can also offer the best features of the competition, such as the elegant and integrative design of macOS or the Android integration of Chrome OS.
Microsoft boss Satya Nadella is clearly proud of the new Windows generation. (Screenshot: t3n / Microsoft)
If you are already curious whether your device will be suitable for the upcoming Windows 11, you should the PC Integrity Check tool from this website to install. Among other things, it analyzes your system and gives you the correct answer. But you still need a little patience, because Microsoft has not yet published a definitive plan for the rollout of the new version. On the FAQ page for Windows 11, the manufacturer cautiously announces the beginning of 2022 for most devices. The update will be free.
If you get the result that Windows 11 cannot be installed on your own device, you don’t have to get into the hustle and bustle. Microsoft will fully support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
