On June 24, the American tech giant Microsoft has officially unveiled a new generation of the world's most popular computer operating system – Windows 11 – despite the company's initial plans to make Windows 10 the latest OS with constant updates. This update is the largest in the last 10 years.

The main changes affected the operating system's interface, the Start menu, the desktop, the way of communication, widgets, access to video games, security, sound, applications and other features.

The new system will be optimized as much as possible for use in mobile devices and will be significantly more energy-efficient than previous versions of the OS, as well as better work with multiple monitors and touch screens.

Windows 11 minimum system requirements:

  • Processor: 64-bit, dual-core, at least 1 GHz or SoC;
  • RAM: 4 GB;
  • Storage: 64 GB;
  • Display: 9 inches, 1366×768 pixels;
  • Graphics: DirectX12 compatible with WDDM 2.0 driver;
  • Security: UEFI, Secure Boot and TPM 2.0.

New design

The company redesigned the new OS. Instead of the usual tiles, users will now see an "airy" menu with rounded corners. At the same time, the Start panel has moved to the center of the screen, but it still can be returned to its usual place.

Windows 11 will allow you to group applications to configure multiple desktops. For example, for work and play. Also, the new operating system has a separate page with widgets like calendar, weather, web search, to-do list and more.

Windows 11 also features an updated dark mode:

Android app support

Another innovation is that Windows now supports Android applications. For example, TikTok or Instagram, which one can download directly from the Microsoft Store.

Best Windows for games

Microsoft called Windows 11 the best Windows for gaming, and it seems to be true. The new version has a built-in xCloud streaming service that allows you to play games over the cloud for Xbox consoles.

It also features Auto-HDR, which will improve dynamic range even in games that previously did not have HDR support, making colors appear more natural.

High performance

The system takes up 40% less space and works more efficiently than before, thanks to improved handling of background tasks.

Windows 11 is also better optimized for working with tablets: gestures have been improved along with voice typing, and the on-screen keyboard has changed.

The release update will be gradual. At the end of the month, beta testing program participants will receive it. And by the end of the year, the developers promise to roll out the update for everyone. For Windows 10 license holders, the new version will be free.

The previous generation of the operating system, Windows 10, will be supported until October 14, 2025.