June 24, 2021, Microsoft unveils all the details on Windows 11, its new operating system available since October 5, 2021.
After Apple and its macOS Monterey, Microsoft has therefore released the heavy artillery. And although he had promised that Windows 10 would be the last iteration of Windows, Windows 11 is here.
This new version marks a real turning point in the Windows philosophy. The interface has been completely revised to offer an experience based on simplicity and freedom.
Satya Nadella insisted on the grand opening of Windows 11, just to remind, perhaps, that Microsoft is poles apart from Apple. But then what are the new features of this new Windows 11? We noted 6 big changes.
Windows 11, that pillar of the (task) bar
It will not have escaped anyone’s notice, Windows 11 is marked by a real aesthetic turning point. Microsoft wants to make life easier for users by completely overhauling its interface. Lighter, it denotes what we have known until now by its touch of modernity and its more “aerial” animations.
These aesthetic changes are accompanied by a any new layout of graphic elements. The “Start” button as well as the application icons are refocused on the taskbar. Mac and especially Chromebook users will feel right at home.
This taskbar is also smart. Using the power of the cloud, it displays the last recently opened documents in Microsoft 365, even if you have them opened on another machine (iOS, Android). Well seen.
Widgets for better productivity
Windows 11 is also thought to improve productivity. To make things easier for you, Microsoft has developed new functions “Layout Anchor”, “Groups Anchor” and “Desktops”.
Behind these mysterious names hide powerful functionalities allowing in particular to configure workspaces. For example, you can configure a set of application windows that you use for writing. You can then open a Music window, another with Word, the other with Edge, all on the same desktop.
More interestingly, Windows 11 “remembers” your preferences. So, if you are working with an external monitor, Windows 11 will display the same working interface that you were using before disconnecting the PC from the monitor.
At last, Windows 11 is also marked by the integration of Widgets. In a side menu you can display a set of widgets on half or all of the screen. The positions of the different elements can of course change according to your preferences.
Microsoft Teams responds to FaceTime
Like Apple, Microsoft wants to simplify the lives of teleworkers. Microsoft Teams is therefore now directly integrated into the taskbar. A response to the new FaceTime? Without a doubt.
With one click, you can contact your colleagues or friends by chat, voice or video with just one click. If your interlocutor does not have Teams (regardless of the platform), an SMS will be sent to him to join the conversation from his browser.
Also note in-depth integration of Teams flagship features. For example, you can share a presentation directly from the taskbar.
The Microsoft Store is (finally) readable
Real gas factory on Windows 10, the Microsoft Store is also getting a big makeover. Simpler and more readable, it now has a more intelligent recommendation system.
Above all, the new Microsoft Store is more orderly, the applications are sorted by categories and the search parameters are more complete. Multimedia content is also classified in a separate category for a more intuitive experience.
The Microsoft Store is enriched with the passage of new known applications. “It will also soon be possible to access leading applications such as Microsoft Teams, Visual Studio, Disney +, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom or Canva” Microsoft promises.
Windows 11 loves Android apps …
Do you like Android apps? Windows 11 too. Microsoft’s new OS can accommodate the applications of the little green robot. To download them, it relies on the Amazon App Store, less rich than the Google Play Store, but relatively well supplied.
Once installed, the applications can be launched directly from the taskbar. The user can then customize the window size or layout. Games, for example, can run in full screen.
… et le Xbox Game Pass
Determined to find a place in the sun in the world of gaming, Microsoft wants to make Windows 11 the preferred platform for gamers. For this, it relies on graphics performance by integrating DirectX 12 Ultimate which can enjoy high graphics quality and high frequency at the same time.
With DirectStorage, already integrated into the Xbox Series, Windows 11 is able to speed up loading times. Finally Auto HDR makes the visual experience more qualitative and more immersive.
Especially Windows 11 will host Xbox Game Pass for PC as well as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Thus players will be able to benefit (for a monthly subscription) from a catalog of more than 100 games. PC accessories and peripherals will of course be supported by Windows 11.
“Here is the first release of a new era for Windows” Satya Nadella concluded at the end of the presentation conference. A new era placed under the sign of ” freedom “ and of “Opening”.
I am a technology author with 8 years of experience in journalism. My writing covers the latest technology advancements and trends, drawing on my expertise in news journalism and social media platforms. I have contributed to major media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Reuters.
