Earlier on June 24, 2021, tech-giant Microsoft made an official announcement that Windows 11 is going to be released this year. Offering a new look and plenty of updates, the new operating system is set to be out “this holiday season”. If you are currently a user of Windows 10 and keen to install Windows 11, what makes the new upgrade different and what features can you expect? 

Modern User Interface Design

Windows 11 design has a fresh minimalist quality in it, as can be seen through its start button, font, and icon. This simple design gives off a calm atmosphere. The Start menu is located at the center of the screen by default, giving a new look compared to its predecessors. As an addition, Start is integrated with cloud and Microsoft 365 to display recently viewed documents. This includes viewing documents from either Android or iOS platform. This can surely be helpful in switching devices for better multitasking at work.

Windows 11 also offers the convenience of Snap Layouts and Snap Groups. These features enable users to automatically organize windows, and optimize it based on a device’s screen size. The new OS allows users to create and customize different desktops for different needs. In other words, it is possible to set up different desktops for work, gaming, and many more purposes. Separating personal and professional life by switching different desktops can help you unwind from work despite using the same computer after working hours, thus achieving a better work-life balance.

A New Way to Connect with Other People

The global pandemic has limited the way people connect with each other. More people are relying on their gadgets and the internet to communicate and collaborate. Responding to this trend, Windows 11 introduces a new Chat app from Microsoft Teams, which can be found in the taskbar. This cross-platform app allows users to connect with people through chat, voice and video, regardless of devices they are using. In addition, communication is still viable through two-way SMS if one of the users does not have Teams app installed.

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Improved Gaming Experience

Being productive does not always mean working relentlessly; it can also mean taking a time off to reduce stress, such as with gaming activity. Gaming has become a fundamental aspect for every Operating System, and Windows 11 offers us better gaming experience. Windows 11 allows us to utilize DirectX 12 Ultimate, which provides high resolution graphics in high frame rate: DirectStorage. This feature speeds up the load times and improves game world details. Another feature includes Auto HDR, which improves the overall visuals for the games we play. Microsoft also ensures that Windows 11 is made to be compatible with PC gaming accessories and peripherals. Moreover, we can still easily connect with people no matter whether they are playing on a PC or console.

Widgets and Microsoft Store

The Widgets and new Microsoft Store in Windows 11 offers a fresh and minimalist design, which gives less hassle for browsing. The wide range of Widgets in this newest upgrade makes it convenient to display useful shortcuts. The AI enables users to curate feeds, so they can get personalized results and information according to their preference. The new Microsoft Store also offers various selections of contents, such as movies, games, shows, and apps. Instances of third-party apps that will be featured in Microsoft Store are Microsoft Teams, Visual Studio, Disney+, Adobe Creative Cloud, and many more. Being able to customize widgets and choose additional applications can maximize comfort for users for both productivity and entertainment.

Windows 11 System Requirements

Interested in upgrading to Windows 11? Make sure to check whether your device is compatible with some of these requirements. To be able to install the new system, your device should have at least 1 GHz with 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor. Minimum of 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage are also needed to run Windows 11 properly. Another requirement includes a graphics card that is compatible with DirectX 12. More detailed system requirements can be found here.

Windows 11 is highly anticipated as it promises fresh features and updates. The latest system update offers users a fresher look and more improved services compared to its predecessors. Boasting its simplicity in accommodating different displays for different purposes, Windows’ upcoming release can be a suitable choice of operating system to boost your productivity.

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