Windows 11 is the latest major release of Microsoft's Windows NT operating system, officially announced on June 24, 2021. It succeeds Windows 10 and introduces several modern features aimed at enhancing user experience on compatible devices. Here are some of the key characteristics and changes found in Windows 11:
User Interface
Windows 11 features a revamped user interface that includes a centered Start menu and taskbar. The design embraces rounded corners, softer visuals, and new animations to provide a more modern aesthetic compared to prevoius versions.
System Requirements
The system requirements for Windows 11 are notably higher than those for Windows 10. Key requirements include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, TPM version 2.0, and DirectX 12 compatibility with a WDDM 2.x driver.
Performance Improvements
Microsoft has optimized the speed and efficiency in Windows 11. With improvements in memory management and prioritization of processes using the CPU and GPU resources, users experience better performance particularly in multitasking environments.
Snap Layouts and Groups
This feature enhances window management by allowing users to organize multiple windows into predefined layouts on the screen more efficiently. This can boost productivity especially for those working with several applications simultaneously.
DirectStorage
DirectStorage is another significant addition designed primarily for gamers. It allows games to load assets directly into the GPU memory from the storage device, bypassing the CPU which significantly reduces load times.
Android Apps Compatibility
Windows 11 introduces support for Android apps through Amazon’s Appstore which can be accessed via the redesigned Microsoft Store. This feature enables users to run Android apps natively on their desktop.
Virtual Desktops
The virtual desktops feature has been improved in Windows 11, allowing users to set separate backgrounds for each desktop while making it easier to toggle between them.
Enhanced Touch Support
For touchscreen devices such as tablets or touch-enabled laptops, Windows 11 offers enhanced functionalities like bigger touch targets and new gestures which make navigation easier without requiring peripheral input devices.
Overall, Windows 11 builds upon its predecessor with considerable enhancements focusing on visual elements, performance tuning across hardware types, innovative features beneficial to both general users and gamers alike.
