Windows 11 is set for release in late 2021 and is set to bring a lot of new features! In this blog we will cover some of the biggest features that have been released by Microsoft.
The past 18 months brought an incredible shift in how we used our PCs; we went from fitting the PC into our lives to trying to fit our whole lives into the PC. Our devices weren’t just where we went for meetings, classes and to get things done, but where we came to play games with friends, binge watch our favorite shows and, perhaps most meaningfully, connect with one another. In the process we found ourselves recreating the office banter, the hallway chatter, workouts, happy hours and holiday celebrations – digitally.
What was so powerful was the shift in the PC we saw and felt – from something practical and functional to something personal and emotional. This is what inspired us as we were building the next generation of Windows. To build you a place that feels familiar, where you can create, learn, play and most importantly, connect in all new ways.
Windows 11 Announcement - June 24, 2021
Simple Design
Microsoft have simplified the design and improved the user experience to improve productivity. They have mentioned that the design will be modern, fresh, clean and beautiful! Everything aspect has been designed to bring a sense of calm and ease from the new start button and taskbar to each sound, font and icon.
Bring People Closer
Microsoft wanted to bring people closer together with Windows 11. Microsoft Teams will be integrated in the taskbar so you can instantly connect with your contacts through text, chat, voice or video. Even if the person you are connecting with hasn't downloaded Microsoft Teams, you can connect with them via two-way SMS.
Windows 11 are also giving you a more natural way to connect through teams. You will be able to instantly mute/unmute or start presenting directly from the taskbar.
RIP Internet Explorer
Microsoft have announced that Internet Explorer will be "disabled" in Windows 11. “The Internet Explorer 11 desktop application will not be available on Windows 11. Microsoft Edge is the default browser for Windows 11,” explains a Microsoft spokesperson to The Verge.
This will be the first time that Internet Explorer isn't included in a new version of Windows for more than 20 years. If you use shortcuts like iexplore, you will be redirected to Microsoft Edge instead.
Black Screen of Death!
Microsoft's blue screen of death is changing to black in Windows 11. According to The Verge, Microsoft will be switching to a black screen to match the new logon and shutdown screens. This change becomes the first major change since the sad face was added in 2012 and the QR code was added in 2016.
What Are The Requirements?
Unlike Windows 10, which was designed to run on older hardware, Windows 11 requires relatively new hardware and will NOT install on older PCs. The published system requirements for Windows 11 are:
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor
- RAM: at least 4GB
- Storage: at least 64GB of available storage
- Security: TPM version 2.0, UEFI firmware, Secure Boot Capable
- Graphics Card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver
- Display: High definition (720p) display, 9" or greater monitor, 8 bits per colour channel
How Can Edmondson's IT Help?
The team at Edmondson's IT Services are here to help with any IT issues that you may face with this change. Click here if you are looking to invest in new hardware or alternatively click here if you require any IT support.
