Windows 11: Everything You Need to Know

pcmag.com:

Drastic redesigns of Windows have proven disastrous for Microsoft in the past, with Windows 8 the worst case in point. But after testing Windows 11 for myself, I’ve found that, though the interface looks quite different, it doesn't take long to figure out how things work. At its introduction event, Microsoft chief product officer Panos Panay expressed a desire not to alienate longtime Windows aficionados, and that's a good thing (though almost impossible given the way many people react to change). There’s plenty of innovation in Windows 11 despite this goal to make it feel familiar.

The new operating system started rolling out as an upgrade to PCs on October 4, 2021, at 1 p.m. PT. Before taking the plunge to upgrade, you should first determine whether your PC can run Windows 11. The rollout will last into mid-2022, according to Microsoft, as the myriad PC hardware and software configurations are validated for compatibility. Keep an eye on PCMag's Windows 11 page for related tips and news. Now let's get started with our look at the biggest new changes and features.

The Taskbar icons are now centered and smaller like in Chrome OS, but the Start button is still to the left of the other app icons. Windows get tightly rounded corners, similar to macOS. I’m still not a fan of the always-narrow Taskbar buttons. In Windows 10 you get wide taskbar buttons for running apps that contrast with narrow icons for pinned apps. The centered look may win me over, however, since it doesn't require you to move the mouse cursor across a full screen to launch an app from the Start Menu.

More subtle are the transparency, animations, and clean icon design that represent an evolution of the Fluent Design System, which, though promised, never