Windows 11 Roll Out Date: What You Need to Know

In early June 2021, Microsoft published online support documents that hinted at the internal testing of Windows Sun Valley, the codename for its latest operating system project. Based on the 21H2 Cobalt development cycle and a private co-refresh branch, Windows 11 brings significant changes to the Windows shell.

One of the notable features is the redesigned Start menu, which replaces the 'live tiles' with a separate Widgets panel on the Taskbar. Users can now create tiled sets of windows that can be minimized and restored from the Taskbar as a group. Additionally, Windows 11 introduces new gaming technologies inherited from Xbox Series X and Series S, including Auto HDR and DirectStorage on compatible hardware.

Microsoft also announced plans to offer more flexibility in software distribution via Microsoft Store and support for Android apps on Windows 11, through a partnership with Amazon. Microsoft Teams is integrated into the shell, replacing some of the traditional Windows features.

The Chromium-based Microsoft Edge replaces Internet Explorer (IE), just like its predecessor, Windows 10. With these changes, Windows 11 is now available as a free upgrade to eligible customers, more than six years after the release date of its predecessor and the longest time span between successive releases of Microsoft Windows.

As for support, the 21H2 release will be supported until October 10, 2023, while enterprise and educational support will continue through October 8, 2024.

Windows 11 roll out date