Microsoft unveiled Windows 11 on June 24, 2021, marking the first major Windows redesign since 2015. The reveal surprised many since Microsoft had previously claimed Windows 10 would be the “last version of Windows.”
Design Overhaul
Windows 11 introduced:
- Centered Start Menu (controversial)
- Rounded corners and translucent effects
- New Snap Layouts for multitasking
- Widget panel
- Android app support via Amazon Appstore
- DirectStorage for faster game loading
System Requirements Controversy
Microsoft’s strict hardware requirements sparked backlash:
- TPM 2.0 chip requirement
- Specific CPU generation minimums
- Millions of Windows 10 PCs declared incompatible
- Community workarounds to bypass checks
Market Reception
The free upgrade for Windows 10 users launched October 5, 2021. Initial adoption was slower than Windows 10, with many users satisfied with their current OS and wary of early adoption bugs.
Gaming Focus
Microsoft emphasized gaming features:
- Auto HDR for legacy games
- DirectStorage API
- Xbox Game Pass integration
- Better performance on modern hardware
Ongoing Evolution
Windows 11 received continuous updates, eventually adding tabs to File Explorer, new Paint apps, and AI features like Copilot in later versions.