Windows 11 with game enhancements launches October 5

PC users no longer wonder when the next big Windows platform will be released. Confirmed today in a blog postMicrosoft will release Windows 11 on October 5. New computers loaded with the redesigned operating system will also be released that day, although a free Windows 11 update will begin rolling out for existing Windows 10 users from launch day. But getting your update could take a while.

Microsoft is looking for its latest major OS release for guidance on this release for existing devices. “The free upgrade to Windows 11 begins October 5 and will be phased and measured with a focus on quality. After the tremendous Windows 10 learnings, we want to make sure we give you the best possible experience, ”says Aaron Woodman in his Windows blog post. Newer products running Windows 10 will be prioritized as they are more likely to meet preferred specs, which won’t be a stretch for recently purchased computers.

Microsoft plans for the release to last until mid-2022, so if your desktop or laptop is more than a couple of years old, you may need to have a little patience. Prior to the release of Windows 11, MS will re-launch its PC Health Check application to determine eligibility for the update. Those who wish to stay on Windows 10 for the foreseeable future will continue to receive support and updates until October 14, 2025.

So what does Windows 11 mean for games? Microsoft is taking features from the Xbox Series X / S consoles and incorporating them into the new operating system. Auto HDR and DirectX 12 Ultimate will appear, allowing the use of DirectX Raytracing, mesh shaders, and variable speed shading. In simple terms, games may look and / or work better with these tools.

Another big issue for PC gaming is the inclusion of support for the DirectStorage API, which will greatly decrease in-game loading times, like what you would see in the X / S Series. Fortunately, DirectStorage will also be available for Windows 10 users, but regardless of your operating system, the feature will need specific hardware like solid state drives to work.

Of course, the Xbox app and Xbox Game Pass, as usual, for a separate subscription fee, will be present in the new operating system environment, allowing the use of the Xbox community features and the game library. subscription service. Game streaming through the Xbox app via Xbox Cloud Gaming will come at some point, but until then, the service will have to be through the web browser.

Windows 11 will also get a new look, with the Start menu gravitating toward the center of the taskbar. Clicking on the Start icon will open a docking window with your available applications. It’s more of a MacOS in its presentation, so those who are loyal to Windows may experience a culture shock. Microsoft is linking Teams to the taskbar and will introduce updates to widgets, settings, and improved accessibility options. Android apps will also make their debut on PC, and not just for touchscreen devices!

While switching from Windows 10 to 11 is a big deal, I don’t see it as as troublesome as previous OS transitions. While Windows 11 has a new look, the way it runs behind the scenes will be similar enough to Windows 10 that you don’t have to worry about your current game collection suddenly becoming useless. Although there may be individual problems with applications and programs, if there is something you absolutely need to keep it running, do a little research before updating.

Are you excited about the new version of Windows? Will you update as soon as possible or would you rather wait and see how things evolve? I, for one, love delving into new software and technology, so count me among those who dive right in.