This came as a surprise to everyone who expected Windows 10 to be the last version of Microsoft's operating system.
In recent years, the company has been betting on Windows 10, focusing on long-term support, but now it has decided to move to a new version.
Microsoft will release the next version of Windows, Windows 24, on June 11. Ahead of the release, the first build was leaked today. The leaker gives us a few screenshots (via XDA Developers), showing new changes to the Start menu, taskbar, and other aspects of the operating system.
Despite the new name, Windows 11 looks like a new version of Windows 10, perhaps a new update. It brings a major visual redesign, but under the hood we still have the same OS. The new version creates some hype around the update. We have to agree that the new Windows 10 updates are not as exciting as the new version updates. Despite the familiar experience, we have new design changes that clearly hint at a new design direction for Windows.
Windows 11 includes many elements of Windows 10X
The new Windows 11 will come in all versions previously available for Windows 10. We will have Windows 11 Home, Pro, Enterprise and others.
Even the installation interface brings a new design update that deviates significantly from what we are used to in Windows 10. There are many new icons with shadows and a slight 3D-like effect. This is a major departure from the flat design installed by Windows 11.
One of the most notable features of this leaked build is that it looks like Windows 10X. For those who don't know, Windows 10X was a new version of the OS aimed at hybrid devices. Microsoft has decided to end the platform for good, but apparently some of the work is being used with Windows 11.
Windows 10X promised some changes, such as running apps in containers so they can't access the rest of the system. However, this is not the case with the build of Windows 11. It seems that the company is simply using the Windows 10X shell on top of Windows 10.
You may also have noticed the new Windows logo, which is a blue Microsoft logo. The icon replaces the trapezoid logo. The company appears to be changing the nature of the Windows brand to something more Microsoft-branded.
The taskbar is now centered, but you can customize it. In case you haven't noticed, the system offers a new Start icon. In addition, Windows Search is also getting a brand new look.
Apparently, Microsoft also uses some elements of Sun Valley UX. This includes floating centered departures. In addition, the new search menu allows you to filter results by programs, documents, settings, etc. File Explorer doesn't change much, but all the icons are different compared to Windows 10.
As for the apps, nothing really changes in terms of design. However, this may change in the future. If you remember, Windows 10 in its early versions was very close to Windows 8.1 in terms of design.
Windows 11 will bring back widgets. However, this time we have something closer to macOS, and it will most likely replace Live Tiles. It is worth noting that the widgets will look different if you are in light and dark modes.
Big announcement for Windows 11 next week
We expect new additions to appear in the coming months. After all, Microsoft won't be announcing Windows 11 until next week.
We expect distribution to those subscribed to the preview program. However, a full stable release should arrive by the last quarter.
