Introducing Windows 11
The way in which we all work has changed dramatically over the last 18 months – flexible working is here to stay, and as such, technology and the way it supports productivity and collaboration has needed to adapt.
And that’s exactly what Microsoft has done with the introduction of Windows 11, (released on 4th October), which focuses on productivity, creativity and ease.
Modern, clean and fresh
Microsoft state that they have ‘simplified the design and user experience to empower your productivity and inspire your creativity’. But what does that actually mean?
For starters, the Start icon is now at the centre of the task bar, and they’ve made it easier to quickly find what you need. Start now ‘utilizes the power of the cloud and Microsoft 365 to show you your recent files, no matter what platform or device you were viewing them on earlier, even if it was on an Android or iOS device.’
Now that is a useful improvement – less stress from the start (no pun intended!).
Changes to File Explorer
One of the first things you’ll notice is that the icons inside File Explorer have been updated. They have also got rid of the old File Explorer ribbon and replaced it with some quick action buttons, such as New, Cut, Copy, Paste, Re-share and Delete. And, if you need to perform more complex action, Microsoft has provided a drop-down menu that will offer you more options.
Increased flexibility
With Windows 11, you’ll see the introduction of Snap Layouts, Snap Groups and Desktops, which Microsoft say will ‘provide an even more powerful way to multitask and stay on top of what you need to get done.’
These features are designed to help you better organise your Windows, so you can see and easily access what you want, when you want, in a way that minimises clutter.
You can also create separate desktops for each area of your life – work, home, gaming, school etc.
Connecting you to the people you care about
The way we interact and connect with people has changed so dramatically in the last 18 months – and even though we’re seeing more in-person interaction now; digital connection is still key and Microsoft are intent on making sure that whatever device or platform you’re on, that it doesn’t become a barrier.
Teams integration in the taskbar
With that in mind, they are introducing Chat (from Microsoft Teams) integrated in the taskbar. Now you can instantly connect through text, chat, voice or video with all of your personal contacts, anywhere, no matter the platform or device they’re on, across Windows, Android or iOS.
Get the information you need (and care about) even faster
Windows 11 will connect you with the information you care about even faster with the introduction of Widgets – a new personalised feed powered by AI in Edge.
They acknowledge that we all need a break from time-to-time, and most of us will pick up our phones. But Windows 11 offers you a similarly curated overview of news, weather, reminders etc, right from your desktop.
New Microsoft Store
Windows 11 comes with a new Microsoft store which has been built for speed and ease of use. It will bring you more apps that are even easier to search for. As always, when you download from the store, you have peace-of-mind that it’s been tested for security and safety.
And, for the first time, Android apps will be in the Microsoft Store! Starting later this year, people will be able to discover Android apps in the Microsoft Store and download them through the Amazon Appstore.
Faster and more secure
Windows 11 is secure by design, with new built-in security technologies that will add protection from the chip to the cloud, while enabling productivity and new experiences.
You will be able to seamlessly upgrade from Windows 10.
If you’re a projectfive customer and you have any questions about upgrading to Windows 11, please contact our friendly team.