Windows 11 launch today: As it happened, blow by blow account - from Start Menu, touch, widgets to Xbox app, know it all

Windows 11 launch today: The big day is finally, here and Microsoft Windows 11 OS has been launched in a glitzy and quite a blue-toned ceremony. What has been announced so far indicates that Microsoft OS is not likely to loosen its bear-like grip on the world of software that it has dominated for decades.

Microsoft Windows 11 launched (Microsoft)

At the Windows 11 launch event, the first to appear was Panos Panay, Microsoft's chief product officer. After showing what a great history Microsoft Windows has and how long it has been since it was first launched (35 years), he then proceeded to confirm the launch of Windows 11.

And what all has changed?

Well, for starters, the Start Menu has been shifted to the centre. No surprise there as this was hinted at by many leaks in the days leading up to the launch event.

However, there is more to it than just a change in the Start Menu. Windows 11 looks like it has gone through a major makeover. The design has been completely overhauled. There are widgets and a dock bar that will remind many of the Apple Macs.

As the last teaser before the launch event hinted, Windows 11 is focussed on touch that makes multi-tasking easier through what is being referred to as Snap layouts. In short, it allows users to opt for different layouts while opening multiple apps. Touch feature has been taken to a higher plane, in fact, Windows 11 performance will be heightened while using the surface. Use of pen will become easier and much better, boosting productivity.

Windows 11 will work better in touch mode as well, especially when using the Surface in a tablet mode. With Windows 11, Microsoft is enabling Haptics to make using the pen easier.

We had mentioned widgets earlier in passing. However, in Windows 11, the entertainment section in the official Microsoft Store has been fully redesigned and makes it easier to view and access shows.

Next in line are vertical tabs that allow you too see tabs you had open on Edge browser.

Teams integration is another highlight of the Windows 11 launch. What it has done is empower and link employees in a much more integrated unit. It allows them to call, oe even video call, anyone, even if they are on a different gadget - think Apple Macs.

Considering everyone is stuck at home and their need for entertainment has increased, Windows 11 has perked up its gaming space. In any case, Xbox is a massive asset for Microsoft and it is bound to take advantage. In fact, Microsoft has brought certain Xbox features to Windows 11, especially via Xbox app. This was revealed by Sarah Bond, Corporate VP of Xbox who said graphics will be much more superior and Auto HDR would be rolled out for gamers. Thousands of games will get enhanced due to this giving users a much better experience.

Windows 11 is looking to integrate everything into itself. It has been announced that Android apps will be on Windows 11 with Microsoft Store, even TikTok, via its integrated apps feature.

All this and Microsoft chief Satya Nadella has not even appeared on stage. Well, when he finally did, this is what he said, "Windows is about democratisation."

Nadella then explained the vision behind the changes in Windows 11. He said, "The OS should mould to us, not the other way round."

And the future? Nadella averred, "Platform for the next web - that's what we want to be."