[Update: August 27, 2021]: Microsoft revises minimum requirements
Microsoft's live event is going on where the company has just announced its new desktop operating system, calling it Windows 11. You can watch it live at Microsoft (super hiccupy live stream) or keep yourself updated through this piece.
Windows 11 will be a free upgrade for Windows 10 devices, going public later this year. But your device will need to meet the minimum system requirements to be able to get this free upgrade.
Windows 11 system requirements
Here are the minimum Windows 11 system requirements that confirm that the operating system will be the first that is only made for 64-bit devices.
- Processor: 64-bit dual-core (or more)
- 1Ghz or faster
- 64GB drive or more (up from 32GB for Windows 10)
- 4GB RAM or greater
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- 9-inch or greater monitor, 8 bits per color channel
- High definition (720p)
- DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x
- Internet connectivity
- Microsoft Account will be needed to complete setup on first use
The requirement of a 9-inch device may prove to be bad news for those cute little mini tablets that try to be workstations on the go. RAM and storage requirements have also increased when compared to Windows 10, which means more entry-level devices will now have 64GB storage and not just 32GB.
As for the 64-bit OS, the 32-bit apps will be supported on this new operating system, so hopefully, there won't be any app compatibility issues.
To learn more about today's Windows 11 announcement:
- Windows 11 will get one feature update a year
- Windows 11 is Official with a Centered Start Menu
- W11 Insider Builds Incoming
- Windows 11 Chat App Will Appear on the Taskbar Powered by Microsoft Teams
- W11 Will Be a Free Upgrade for Windows 10
- Android Apps will Now Work on Windows
- Watch the Livestream
