Microsoft’s “next generation” of Windows is set to be announced on June 24th and thanks to a huge leak earlier this week, we have a clear idea of what to expect from the event.
New Windows 11 UI
For months now it has been reported that Microsoft are working on UI improvements to Windows and it seems that a lot of them will be making an appearance in Windows 11. A leaked version of the UI includes an updated design which has a new Start menu which is now centred on the taskbar.
This is very similar to what we saw in Windows 10X, which was later cancelled in favor of bringing parts of that OS to the main version of Windows. Windows 10X was initially built with dual-screen devices in mind but that has since been put on hold.
The new Start menu seems to act as a launcher which allows you to easily find recently used documents or your favourite apps. The Live Tiles are now gone but you can still move the Start menu to the left hand side of the screen.
There are also other subtle UI changes. Microsoft is expected to focus on rounded corners with Windows 11 and new improvements to multitasking across tablets, laptops and desktop PCs. The leaked copy of Windows 11 does not have every UI change but it does have most of it. We are still expecting changes to the taskbar, notification centre, and general parts of Windows like the volume pop-up and more.
New Windows Store
Microsoft are also expected to focus on their new approach to the Windows Store. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella teased “significant updates” for Windows that will focus on the economic opportunity for developers and creators. “We will create more opportunity for every Windows developer today and welcome every creator who is looking for the most innovative, new, open platform to build and distribute and monetize applications,” said Nadella last month.
The company have been working on a new Windows store that is open to all apps and games. This could allow developers to submit any Windows application to the store which includes browsers such as Chrome and Firefox.
If this is true, and Microsoft does enable third-party commerce platforms across apps in the Windows store, this would allow developers to bypass the 15 percent cut that Microsoft takes from developers who use in app payments.
Focus On The Everyday Consumer
Microsoft has always tried to entice creators, developers and others to Windows in the past but the company is expected to shift their focus to core improvements in Windows 11 that will benefit those who use the operating system daily.
There have been hints at improving the multitasking interface across desktop PCs and even tablets in the leaked Windows 11. The new UI will reportedly allow you to easily snap apps and also bring improvements to how it handles monitor support in Windows 11.
Windows 11 is expected to be a free upgrade for any PC that currently runs Windows 10 right now. Microsoft focused heavily on free upgrades to Windows 10 during its launch period, and it wouldn’t make sense to suddenly start charging for Windows 11. Microsoft makes most of its Windows revenue through OEM or commercial licenses, so a free upgrade to Windows 11 for consumers seems like a no-brainer.
