Microsoft has unveiled the next generation of its Windows software, called Windows 11, that has sleeker visual features and is more open to third-party apps.
The newest version of Microsoft’s flagship operating system announced will be a successor to today’s Windows 10, which the company introduced in 2015.
Windows 11 is expected to become available later this year on new computers and other devices and as a free update for those with Windows 10.Credit:AP
In a challenge to rival Apple, the company also announced that it won’t force app developers to pay fees to Microsoft for using its app store; and that Google’s popular Android apps will run on its new system.
Windows 11 is expected to become available later this year on new computers and other devices and as a free update for those with Windows 10. It includes a host of cosmetic upgrades, such as a new Start button, a revamped task bar and sounds, and under-the-hood features designed to boost speed and efficiency.
While opening more doors to third-party developers, it also further entrenches Microsoft’s workplace chatting tool Teams by making it easier to contact people when starting up.
Forrester analyst J.P. Gownder said the aesthetic, user-friendly improvements reflect CEO Satya Nadella’s promise to build products that people will “love,” not tolerate, though Gownder questioned whether Windows 11 is truly a new generation of software. The fact that it is built on the same core code base as Windows 10 might actually be a good thing, he added, because it could avoid the technical glitches that plagued the release of Windows Vista in 2007.
Microsoft’s virtual announcement event was itself affected by technical difficulties, forcing the company to recommend some viewers watch it on Twitter instead.
When it launched Windows 10 six years ago, Microsoft was hoping that the new operating system would help it rebuild loyalty among users who were increasingly relying on tablets, smartphones and other devices.