Microsoft has taken the wraps off the next-gen version of Windows at its much-awaited virtual event today. Though the Redmond giant had previously stated that Windows 10 is the last version of Windows, it is making a major leap today. We are moving past the over 5-year-long legacy of Windows 10 with the launch of Windows 11. Yeah, the next-gen version of Windows is called Windows 11. It brings along a completely overhauled desktop UI, new Start Menu design, Microsoft Store improvements, and much more.
- New Desktop UI + Start Menu
Right out of the gate, you will notice that Windows 11 bring a major UI upgrade. The taskbar icons are now centered, all apps have rounded corners, and Windows feels like a breath of fresh air. The biggest change has to be the redesigned Start Menu. Plus, it’s also floating (separated, not connected to the taskbar anymore) and has a new pop-up animation as compared to Windows 10.
New Desktop UI + Start Menu
New Settings + Action Center UI
Moreover, Microsoft has also revamped the Settings UI to make it look a lot cleaner and easy to access. There is also a redesigned ‘Action Center’ for quick access to certain settings and notifications in Windows 11. You have toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Battery Saver, Focus Assist, and other key settings baked in here. The music playback window will now also show up in the Action Center. for And this is what it looks like:
Windows 11 Widgets
The next big change in Windows 11 will have to be the new widgets panel. It is easily accessible from the new centered taskbar icons. It is a personalized feed that displays weather updates, the latest news curated to your liking, and more. We are currently unsure whether Windows 11 will support third-party widgets from other app makers or not.
- Revamped Microsoft Store
As has been rumored for the longest time, Windows 11 brings a redesigned and more powerful Microsoft Store. The biggest change here is that the company now offers you access to UWP apps, PWAs, or Win32 apps right from the Store.
Revamped Microsoft Store
Tablet/ Touch + Gaming Improvements
Microsoft says that Windows 11 is more intuitive on touch-enabled devices. The next-gen desktop OS feels the same on desktop and tablets. It is now easier to move around apps, support for improved gestures that are similar to those we already use on your trackpad, and immersive stylus/ Ink experience.
The new operating system also comes with native Microsoft Teams integration. You will be able to reach your friends or colleagues right from the taskbar, thanks to a dedicated icon in the taskbar. This is what it looks like:
So yeah, Microsoft is finally moving to Windows 11 from Windows 10 with a myriad of new and exciting upgrades. You get a new desktop UI, Windows 10X design elements, a set of new sounds and wallpapers, and other improvements. But all of that does not mean the Redmond giant is moving away from its Windows-as-a-service strategy. You will now get free Windows 11 updates for the years to come.
