We already knew that Microsoft was planning to release Windows 11 This year. And today, the tech giant announced that the next iteration of Windows will arrive on October 5th.
Like stated in the press release, on October 5, Windows 11 will be launched as a new operating system. The new operating system will be available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 PCs, and new devices running Windows will come with the latest operating system preloaded.
As for the Windows 11 free upgrade, Microsoft has announced that it will start rolling out on October 5, but the process will be “phased and measured with a focus on quality.” The company notes that new devices eligible for upgrade will be given priority, with support for older devices rolling out in the coming weeks and months. Microsoft has previously said Windows 10 devices already in use will begin receiving the OS upgrade next year.
If your device is eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade, the Windows Update tool will let you know when your free upgrade is available. If you are unsure whether or not your device meets the required criteria, you can check via Windows Update, via an overview article that details Windows 11 Specificationsor if you are a member of the Windows Insider Program, you can check using the PC health check app.
If your device is not compatible with Windows 11, don’t worry. Microsoft has confirmed that it will support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025. The company hasn’t said whether or not there will be major updates for Windows 10 before then.
Microsoft announced Windows 11 in June as part of its “What’s Next for Windows” event. As you would expect from a new operating system, Windows 11 will introduce a lot of great features. This includes the new operating system run and support Android apps through the Windows store. Microsoft is also touting Windows 11 as the best operating system ever for gaming and will include several gaming-focused features, such as Auto HDR and the Xbox Game Pass app built right into the latest iteration of Windows.
Taylor is the Associate Technical Writer at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
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