There is merit in keeping up with the times. The dominant desktop operating system has seen its first significant update in seven years with Windows 11.
You receive the most recent in interface design and technology when you update to Windows 11. You also gain capabilities and features that are exclusive to the most recent software version. Even the supplied applications receive updated versions!
If you continue using outdated software, the advancements made in the underlying system code will put you behind. You might wonder “what version of Windows do I have?” You can easily check your device by going to the Setting > About/PC info to know your OS. Then, you can decide if you want to change. But don’t panic, you still have till 2025 to continue using Windows 10.
Here are some strong arguments for why you might wish to switch sooner to the new operating system.
DirectStorage Assistance
Everyone is aware that a Solid-State Drive (SSD) makes your PC faster, but the majority of contemporary games aren’t designed to take advantage of all that extra performance. But because NVMe SSDs were used as the foundation for the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, games are now being developed with that degree of storage speed in mind, considerably expanding the possibilities.
Although it will only be compatible with Windows 11, DirectStorage introduces that technology to Windows.
A Consistently Better Interface
When friends show them their elegant macOS and Chrome OS user interfaces, PC users no longer have to hang their heads in shame. Except for the rare classic Control Panel dialog box, Windows 11 is just as sleek.
The Taskbar’s small size, rounded window corners, and touch-friendly style make it easy on the eyes. It simply appears prettier. Not to be overlooked are the subtle and appealing new system sounds.
Layouts for Better Windows Snap in Snap
Since Windows 7, Snap has been a key feature, but until recently, not many updates have been made to it. Windows 11’s Snap functionality now includes pre-set and editable Snap layouts, making it possible to quickly switch between any number of different window layouts at once.
Better Included Apps
Better apps are included in Windows 11 than in Windows 10. A brand-new Media Player app improves the experience of watching videos and listening to music and podcasts.
Additionally, Clipchamp, a straightforward template-based PWA video editor ideal for small businesses producing films for marketing and promotion, will be available to Windows 11 users soon.
A special note should be made of the Windows 11 Clock app for its helpful new Focus Sessions feature, which aids in concentration while working on projects. Surprisingly capable video editing is also available in the Photos app, including several features not even included in Clipchamp. The apps for Notepad, Paint, and Calculator have also all been updated.
Enhanced Screenshot Software
The choices for taking screenshots in Windows 11 are getting better all the time. Microsoft has improved the antiquated Snipping Tool, which competes with the superior Snip & Sketch program and is accessed by pressing Windows Key-Shift-S.
You can choose program windows, the entire desktop, or rectangular or freehand sections using the Snipping Tool. A mini-editor for cropping and annotation then appears. The screenshot tool also has built-in options for storing and sharing as well as a delay timer. The tried-and-true PrtSc key can still be used to save a screen picture file to the clipboard or OneDrive.
Integration with Microsoft Teams
The realities of 2020 have increased the necessity of good video conferencing software. Since Microsoft Teams has performed well in this area, Windows 11 already includes it. It’s a remarkable turnaround from when Teams crashed at the start of the work-from-home era, don’t you think?
Tools from a third party for working remotely and elsewhere
Because Windows also prides itself on being a productivity platform, the most recent Windows 11 upgrade is packed with options to complete tasks without using separate third-party software.
Better notification control while you’re in the zone comes first. Do Not Disturb mode will be activated via the new Focus Session feature, which will also silence all app and system notifications.
Additionally, it conceals taskbar badges to prevent visual distractions. Meanwhile, the Clock app has been integrated to serve as a reminder to take regular breaks.
Microsoft has added Windows Studio Effects to Teams conversations to help with audio and video quality. The AI-powered enhancements, such as backdrop blur and smart framing, make you appear better than you feel.
The majority of conferencing apps already have a feature that can help buffer out background noise. Being at home while working is not quiet, especially when kids and pets are running about.
To trim up a few seconds for a class project, you shouldn’t need to utilize a full-fledged editing suite. If you want to create something a little more sophisticated, Clipchamp, which is now a part of Windows, has been upgraded with new templates and effects.
Live captioning and further accessibility tools
Live captions are part of the system-wide in Windows 11 to keep up with the rest of the computer industry. Previously, the feature was only accessible through specialized Windows apps, but it is now accessible whenever you are tuning in to video or audio. Live captions can also be repositioned so that you can read them more comfortably.
Another accessibility-focused feature that will be included in Windows 11 is voice access, which enables you to use your voice to navigate the interface and dictate text.
The first time you use the feature, it will onboard you and show you how to control your PC. You can ask for voice access for assistance as you go along, and it will let you know how it understood your request so you can make any necessary adjustments.
Microsoft updated Narrator to include Natural Voices, which makes the computer sound less artificial when in assistance mode. They go by the names Aria, Guy, and Jenny, and according to Microsoft, “lots of feedback” were gathered for the new voices.
PC Gaming
If you use Windows 11, you undoubtedly enjoy playing a few PC games. This update includes a new Controller bar that provides controller-friendly access to switch between games and launchers. When you use your Xbox Wireless Controller or any compatible controller and click the Xbox button, it appears.
For Wies, the Windows 11 2022 update also brings certain graphic enhancements. Improved display latency, Auto HDR, and support for variable refresh rate will be added to any game that supports DirectX 10 and 11, which should improve gaming overall. These features were formerly restricted to full-screen games.
A rise in security is imminent.
In this version of Windows 11, Microsoft has finally included the security features that were promised back in April. They include Smart App Control, which your IT department can use to assist scan programs before you install them on your work computer, and support for Microsoft Pluton, which employs a security chip contained within the CPU to help give further encryption.
Additionally, Microsoft has better phishing detection with Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, and the Local Security Authority (LSA) will be enabled by default on PCs designed for businesses. The whole list of new security features is available on Microsoft’s security blog.
Quick Access Widgets for News, Weather, and More
While the News and Interests panel in Windows 10 appears when you hold your cursor over the taskbar icon, Widgets in Windows 11 are more customizable.
Additionally, Windows 11 will eventually support information widgets from third parties. The news, weather, sports, traffic, family safety, stock prices, outlook calendar, to-do list, and OneDrive images are just a few of the first-party widgets that are helpful.
Topics and news sources change in your news stream. Additionally, Microsoft has shown off a new feature that will enable full-screen viewing of the widget panel.
Greener elements
The most recent patch for Windows 11 seeks to make it simpler to lower your device’s carbon footprints. For instance, Windows will schedule updates at times of the day that could reduce carbon emissions when devices are plugged in, powered on, connected to the internet, and if regional carbon intensity data is available.
Microsoft claimed that to lessen emissions when computers are idle, it also modifies the default power settings for Sleep and Screen off.
Enhanced docking for multiple desktops and monitors
Windows 11’s improved docking behaviors make it easier to use a large external display. Instead of clogging the smaller screen with app windows when you disconnect, the OS remembers window placements and minimizes them.
The ability to utilize various wallpapers on each desktop and a new desktop switching interface are new features for multiple desktops.
Use Android Apps on Your Computer
With the release of Windows 11, the ability to run Android apps directly on your computer was a big issue. The capability does, however, have some restrictions.
Apps cannot be installed through Google Play, the main repository for Android apps, but only through the Amazon AppStore or by sideloading.
The supported apps are few, and you need an Amazon Account. Phone Link, which enables you to view and utilize any apps on a nearby Android phone, seems much more practical.
Snap Groups (for Remembering Snap Layouts)
Snap Groups have been included in addition to the new preset and customized Snap layouts. They save particular application layouts. For instance, a Snap Group might remember that you need to edit video while using a media player on one side of the screen and your video editor on the other.
Conclusion
With the latest updates on Windows 11, you’ll want to get your hands on it. Although Windows 10 is still supported until 2025 you should begin your transition and enjoy its features and better security.
You can browse our online shop for Windows 11 Home and Pro and get up to 20% off.
