Windows 11 First Preview Available - Download Now!

Windows 11 Preview Build Released to Insiders

Today marks the initial release of a preview build for Windows 11, made available to participants in the Dev Channel of Microsoft’s Windows Insider program. Should you be enrolled in the program and your system meets Microsoft’s specified requirements – which are notably complex – the update should become available shortly.

Key Features Included in the First Preview

This inaugural preview incorporates the majority of the new functionalities Microsoft has announced for Windows 11. These include a redesigned user interface, updated themes, integrated widgets, new snap layouts, and a revamped File Explorer. However, certain features are not yet present in this release.

Support for Android apps and the integrated Teams application are slated for inclusion in a subsequent release. A preview of the redesigned Windows Store is, however, accessible as of today.

Exploring the New Interface

Users will have the opportunity to test the new Start menu, and those who prefer the traditional placement will be pleased to know the start button can be repositioned to the bottom-left corner. It’s important to note that the entire taskbar cannot be moved to a different screen edge.

While the Start menu remains a recognizable element of the Windows experience, many advanced users primarily rely on keyboard shortcuts or the taskbar for launching applications. Microsoft is introducing a new “recommended” section within the Start menu, designed to showcase recently installed applications and frequently accessed files.

Image Credits: Microsoft

A Modernized File Explorer

The updated File Explorer is another immediately noticeable change. It abandons the ribbon-style menu in favor of a more streamlined ‘command bar’ and incorporates new, contemporary icons throughout. The aesthetic improvements are apparent, but a thorough evaluation is needed to determine if functionality has been compromised.

Enhanced Window Management with Snap Layouts

The File Explorer, alongside all other applications in Windows 11, will support Microsoft’s new Snap layouts. These build upon existing window snapping capabilities, accessible via gestures or keyboard shortcuts, and integrate them directly into the maximize button. While the core functionality isn’t novel, this feature is expected to introduce window snapping to a wider audience.

Image Credits: Microsoft

Widgets Take Center Stage

The new widgets are now prominently displayed in the taskbar. Currently available widgets include calendar, weather, local traffic, Microsoft To Do, and stock information. Users can also access widgets displaying recent OneDrive photos, as well as sports and esports news.

A personalized news feed is also included.

Refreshed Settings Menu

The Settings menu has also received an update. Since Windows 8, Windows has maintained two separate settings interfaces – the Control Panel and Settings. While the confusion may not be entirely resolved, the new Settings menu offers a cleaner design compared to the existing version in Windows 10.

Image Credits: Microsoft

Beyond the Highlights

Numerous other changes are present in Windows 11. This release represents a significant departure from typical bi-annual Windows 10 updates, offering more than just minor UI adjustments. Real-world performance will be the ultimate test, but as this is an early preview, further feedback is anticipated. The preview is currently being distributed to Insiders, and more comprehensive evaluations are expected shortly. We will also be conducting our own thorough testing in the coming days.