What’s New with Windows 11?

September 14, 2021

Microsoft’s new Operating System (OS) Windows 11 is just around the corner! So it should be no surprise that our IT Support team is excited to assist our clients with rolling the new software out.

Microsoft’s plan is to release Windows 11 to the general public on October 5. This update will be aligned with previous feature updates for Windows 10.

The update includes a bunch of new features and further integrations, improving both personal and business productivity. It additionally marks the first major refresh to Microsoft’s OS since the release of Windows 10 back in July 2015. 

The Adept IT Solutions Managed IT Support Staff have been testing this release for the past few months and have documented all the new features the update offers!


So what is new about Windows 11?
  • The UI Design
    Windows 11 features a clean design with rounded corners, greater transparency and a centered Start menu and taskbar.
  • Integrated Android apps
    Android apps will be coming to Windows 11* and installable from within the new Microsoft Store. This means there can be even more ways to access your favourite apps!
  • Widgets are revived
    In this update you will be able to easily access widgets directly from the taskbar and personalize them to see whatever you’d like.
  • Microsoft Teams integration into the taskbar
    Microsoft Teams will look completely different in the new update, with a further integrated approach where MS Teams is a part of the taskbar. The clean redesign will make the application easier to contact people quickly and professionally.
  • Xbox software and tech for PC gamers
    Windows 11 will get certain features found in Xbox consoles, like Auto HDR and DirectStorage improving the gaming experience.
  • Better virtual desktop support
    Virtual desktops on Windows PC’s let you create multiple, separate desktops that each can display different open windows and apps. This is handy especially when working from home, allowing you to separate work, projects and personal stuff. The update will let you set up multiple virtual desktops in a way that allows you to easily separate windows, move windows around and toggle between multiple desktops.
  • Snap Groups and Snap Layouts
    Snapping Windows has been a feature in recent iterations of the Windows OS. It is a technique to separate your screen with multiple smaller windows. Allowing users to split screen two or more applications. Windows 11 introduces two new features to create easier split screen transitions, these are called ‘Snap Groups’ and ‘Snap Layouts’. ‘Snap Groups’ are saved layouts that can easily be accessed from the toolbar. ‘Snap Layouts’ are easy to access layouts that can then be filled with the apps of your choosing.
  • Dark Mode and Dark Sounds
    A growing number of UI’s are now introducing Dark Mode. Dark Mode not only looks awesome but is also more easy on the eyes in especially dark environments. Alongside the new Dark Mode for Windows 11 is the introduction of Dark Sounds. Dark Sounds are a separate set of quieter, more mellow audio cues that accompany the OS.

* Some Android Apps may not be available on launch.


What does Windows 11 look like?

Here are a few images of what the update looks like.

What's New with Windows 11? - Adept IT Solutions | IT Service and Support Newcastle, Hunter and Central Coast
What's New with Windows 11? - Adept IT Solutions | IT Service and Support Newcastle, Hunter and Central Coast

How much will the update cost?

If you already have a Windows 10 machine, that is eligible* for the feature update, it is free to download!

If you would like to upgrade your machine leading up to the rollout, Adept IT Solutions can assist in ensuring the machine you purchase is Windows 11 compatible.

* Adept IT Solutions can assist you in determining if your machine is eligible.


Can Adept IT Solutions assist with migrating to Windows 11?

Yes!

The Windows 11 update is yet to be released however its rollout is only around the corner. Scheduled for October 5th 2021, the Adept IT Solutions IT Service and Support team can help you plan for the OS update and assist to identify potential incompatibilities with existing software packages.

Our specialized IT Support team can then recommend a time and schedule your upgrade, ensuring that the new software has been appropriately deployed at the correct time to minimise any potential downtime.


Want to learn more about the update?

You can check out more information about the update on the official Microsoft Website.

Alternatively, please feel free to contact Adept IT Solutions on 1300 4 23378 (ADEPT) or email us at info@adept-it.com.au.

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