Three months after Microsoft’s Windows reveal event, we finally have a confirmed date for the final release of Microsoft’s next big operating system. Windows 11 will release on October 5, 2021, with a new design and plenty of new features.
Microsoft has previously confirmed that all eligible PCs running Windows 10 will get the new OS for free. But the company didn’t explain when the update will start rolling out until recently.
So, let’s see when you will be able to upgrade to Windows 11.
Not Everybody Will Get Windows 11 This Year
On August 31, 2021, Microsoft announced on Windows Blogs that Windows 11 will roll out to PCs that meet the eligibility requirements on October 5, 2021. The rollout will happen in phases. So, one batch of devices will get the update earlier than the rest.
This phased approach will target new eligible PCs first. For instance, new laptops that release in fall 2021 will come pre-installed with Windows 11.
Later, the update will make its way to devices that users have purchased before fall 2021. This includes PCs and laptops that meet the Windows 11 hardware requirements.
However, the hardware requirements aren't just about how powerful your processors are. Microsoft is also considering factors such as reliability and age of PCs. So, if your PC is relatively new, you will get the update faster than those with considerably older hardware.
Finally, devices that meet the minimum requirements but are old and unreliable will get the update later down the line. Microsoft is targeting mid-2022 as a soft deadline to complete this phased rollout.
In short, if you have a fairly new PC, you are more likely to get Windows 11 this year. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until mid-2022 to get your hands on Windows 11.
Windows 11 Will Make Its Way to You... if Your PC Is Ready
Check the hardware requirements for Windows 11 and see if your computer meets them. And if your PC doesn’t meet the minimum requirements and you can’t upgrade, don’t worry, as Microsoft has committed to supporting Windows 10 till 2025.
Moreover, if you are in the process of buying a new laptop, it's better to wait for devices that come with Windows 11 out of the box.