When Microsoft launched Windows 10, 6 years ago on the 29th of July 2015, it was the final version of Windows and spelled the end of constant almost annual updates to operating systems. Instead of having to buy a new version of Windows, you could update for free from many legacy versions of Windows and that would be your last ever version, all you’d need in the future would be updates to Windows 10. Today everything changed with the announcement of Windows 11.
There’s a lot to like about Windows 11, such as the integration of Android apps (sorry iPhone users!), and it’ll once again be a free update for all Windows 10 users.
It’s worth asking if Windows 11 is really just an update to Windows 10, and it may well be but the main difference will be a hike in the computer requirements that will be needed compared to Windows 10. You’ll need a 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster processor with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor, 4 GB RAM and a 64 GB or larger storage device. You’ll also need a TPM, decent (DirectX 12) graphics card and 720p or better display.
Users will welcome small and fast to download security updates with Windows 11 rather than the massive Windows 10 updates. It also promises the ability to set up multiple desktops, perhaps a work one, a home one and a gaming one. Gaming by the way is being hyped for Windows 11, but if you’re using your PC for work that’s probably the least attractive update.
Microsoft are keen to capture comms and get you weaned onto Teams Chat and off WhatsApp, Signal, Facebook Messenger, Google Meet and Zoom. Teams Chat will be integrated in the taskbar to enable you to 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.
If you’ve got an older PC that isn’t up to snuff for running Windows 11, don’t worry too much as Windows 10 isn’t slated for retirement until 2025. Bear in mind that’s not even the real end date when you’ll have to toss your PC to the nearest recycler, if it hasn’t blown up anyway. We know that 10% of Tamebay Windows users are using older version including Windows 8, Windows 7, XP and amazingly a few are still using Windows Vista. Just because your version of Windows is out of date doesn’t mean your computer will stop working!
Windows 11 will see some bargains PCs and Laptops sold online
If you are going to buy a new PC or laptop, make sure you now check that it’s going to be Windows 11 compatible before you part with your money! There will be plenty around that will upgrade from Windows 10 with the free upgrade but it will be a annoying and potentially expensive mistake to buy one that’s obsolete at the end of the year.
On the other hand, if you are selling in tech categories on your own website or marketplaces, it’s time to slash prices and dump your stock of what will soon be outdated stock before Windows 11 rolls out. Good news, if you are in the market for a budget machine and are willing to run Windows 10 for a while, you should be able to find some fantastic deals as older tech is liquidated.
