Windows 11 - live: Microsoft’s new ‘next generation’ operating system unveiled today

A new Start Menu, better Xbox integration, a revamped Windows Store, and more are all expected in the announcement

(The Independent)

Microsoft is today announcing its new operating system, Windows 11. The “next generation of Windows” will be showcased at a virtual event, with a new user interface and hints of new features.

Windows 10, the current operating system, was said to be the company’s final version - but the company is now promising “significant” updates. A first build of Windows 11 has already leaked, revealing a new, more rounded interface, a new Start Menu, widgets, and more.

It is also expected there will be changes to the Windows Store, a closer integration with Xbox services, and possibly Office 365 updates.

Read more:

• Windows 11: Everything Microsoft is promising from the operating system nobody expected
• Microsoft's 'next generation' Windows 11 OS leaks revealing weird Start menu, widgets, Xbox apps and more
• Microsoft will end support for ‘the last version of Windows’ in October 2025

[24 June 2021 16:10 · Adam Smith]

“Windows Hello is faster”, Panos says. Browsing on any browser, including Edge, is apparently faster. We saw a hint of that at Build 2021.

Windows updates are 40 per cent smaller too, apparently. They’re also saying that it should improve battery life.

[24 June 2021 16:14 · Adam Smith]

Windows introduces “snap rooms”, a collection of apps that you can go back to quickly when interrupted by an email.

“Next level task switching”, Carmen Zlateff says.

[24 June 2021 16:14 · Adam Smith]

When users unplug their monitor, Windows will remember how you configured your layout and put it back to the way that it was.

Really useful for those working on second screens - which is most of us, during the pandemic.

(Microsoft)

[24 June 2021 16:16 · Adam Smith]

Microsoft is introducing “multiple desktops” with its own backgrounds and utility - home, work, and gaming are the examples Zlateff gave

[24 June 2021 16:18 · Adam Smith]

Teams is now built-into Windows

“Connecting to people is at the top of [our] list”, Panay says, documenting the video calls we were all making in the pandemic.

So Teams is being integrated directly into Windows. “Connect with one touch, the icon front and centre”, he says. RIP Skype.

(Microsoft)

[24 June 2021 16:21 · Adam Smith]

Widgets

Microsoft has now officially introduced Widgets, something that we knew was coming from the leaked build earlier this week

[24 June 2021 16:22 · Adam Smith]

Windows in tablet mode

Windows is now talking about it’s 2-in-1 design, for Surface computers.

Resizing and moving Windows is easier, with gestures added because they are easier when not using a keyboard - the same ones used on the trackpad.

“A consistant experience, with subtle differences”

[24 June 2021 16:24 · Adam Smith]

Windows is also adding voice-typing, and voice commands, and haptics for when using a stylus. There is also a floating keyboard in touch-screen mode.

[24 June 2021 16:25 · Adam Smith]

Microsoft Store

The first mention of the Microsoft Store! With movies and streaming services top of the list, Microsoft says, with wireless projection to TVs.

It is not quite clear how that works yet - this is moving fast!

[24 June 2021 16:29 · Adam Smith]

Gaming on Windows 11

“If you’re a gamer, Windows 11 was made for you”, Panay says.

“Windows is where I learned to play”, says Sarah Bond, Head of Game Creator Experience, who is now on stage. “I am delighted to share ... superior graphics. Games can look better than ever on Windows 11 thanks to AutoHDR, which updates lighting and colour to high dynamic range”. This is a new feature, straight from Xbox to PCs.