Windows 10 continues to be a very popular operating system (OS). As of November 2022, 69.75% ofworldwide Windows users are still using Windows 10, while 16.13% had upgraded to Windows 11.
But those trend lines are slowly changing, and each month more people upgrade their OS to the newer version. This is a smart move, especially because the clock is ticking on the retirement of Windows 10.
Each Microsoft product has a lifecycle, which starts at the release date and ends when the company no longer supports the product. When a product is no longer supported, it means no more feature updates and, most importantly, no more security patches.
Running an OS past its end-of-life (EOL) date is dangerous. It leaves the computer running outdated software at high risk for a cyberattack. But it can also endanger entire home or company networks that are interconnected with that system.
How Long Does Windows 10 Have Left?
Windows 10 Home and Pro versions were released on July 29, 2015. They are planned to be retired on October 14, 2025.
Microsoft Windows 10 lifecycle
While that may seem far off, it will be here before you know it. You don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute to upgrade. It pays to upgrade now for a few important reasons:
- Time to plan a larger companywide upgrade to Windows 11
- Spread out the cost of any needed new systems
- Enjoy advanced features for productivity
- Improved compatibility with new software & hardware
Windows 11 has proven to be a popular and stable release. The workspace design doesn’t veer too far from Windows 10, and the OS is designed for a clutter-free, productive experience.
Are you missing out right now because your PC or company computers are still stuck in the past? We’ll go over some of the best features of Windows 11 below, so you can see what there is to gain from upgrading.
Best Features When Upgrading to Windows 11
Streamlined Start Menu
The Start menu in Windows 10 can get a little overwhelming, and it’s not always easy to find what you need. This area has been completely stripped down in Windows 11.
You can pin apps to your Start page and click to view all apps. Quickly search to find what you need with the search bar at the top.
All Windows 11 images are from Microsoft
Snap Layouts
One of the hands-down best reasons to upgrade to Windows 11 is the snap layouts feature. This significantly improves side-by-side and multi-window work.
68% of computer users say they waste at least 30 minutes per day just switching between apps.
Snap layouts makes it easy to snap your windows in optimized arrangements on your screen in seconds. Easily access your menu controls and avoid the time-consuming task of resizing windows or constantly switching window views.
Run Android Apps on Your PC
With Windows 11, there is no longer a need to download a third-party app to emulate Android apps on your PC. This function is natively built into the operating system. You can play your favorite mobile games right from your laptop or desktop PC.
Widgets Panel
Get a quick view of the weather, your To Do list, news, appointments, and more. The widgets panel opens with a click on your taskbar and is customizable. You choose the widget types you want to add.
Currently available widgets include:
- Family Safety
- Outlook Calendar
- To Do
- Entertainment News
- Weather
- Traffic
- Sports
- Tips
- Stock Watchlist
- Photos
- Gaming
Text & Call from Your Desktop with Teams
Microsoft Teams is natively integrated into Windows 11. There is an icon right on your taskbar that you can use to call, video chat, or message with a click. This is a great feature in today’s environment where video calls have become the norm.
One of the great bonuses of using Teams in Windows 11 is that you can use it to send text messages right from your computer. No more tapping out a long message on a tiny screen! Just sign up for a free Teams account, if you don’t already have one, and enter the number you’d like to message.
Xbox Gaming Features
Gamers will love the improved PC gaming features in this OS, including enhanced graphics. Xbox Game Pass is built in, and there is a new DirectStorage API and auto HDR.
In a recent September 2022 update to Windows 11, Microsoft also added a new Controller bar, which is an enhanced view of the Xbox Game bar. It provides access to recently played games and game launchers.
Need Help Planning a Smooth Windows 10 –> 11 Upgrade?
Our Microsoft experts at Tech Help Services will be happy to help you through a smooth transition to Windows 11.
Give us a call today at 716-203-1366 or reach out online to schedule a chat.