Windows 11, a brand-new operating system from Microsoft, is coming for free this year for all compatible Windows 10 devices. Microsoft has already shared a lot of information about hardware requirements, which, in turn, sparked tremendous confusion among users. According to Microsoft, Windows 11 officially supports computers with 8th gen Intel and 2nd gen AMD CPUs. Another crucial requirement is Trusted Platform Module 2.0 support, or simply TPM 2.0. Many users question the weird spec sheet that renders any computer older than three years old obsolete and unqualified for the upgrade. That is particularly strange, considering that Apple's macOS Monterey supports devices released back in 2013.
If your PC failed to pass Microsoft's new compatibility test, it does not mean that the company will stop providing software support for Windows 10 once Windows 11 is out.
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First, we already know that Windows 10 is on track to receive mainstream support until at least October 2025. Microsoft does not say whether Windows 10 will get new features or capabilities during the next four years, but, at least, those unable to upgrade will continue receiving security patches and fixes.
Second, Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 will get another "major" feature update later this year. While some thought that Windows 10 21H2 is Windows 11 itself, Microsoft clarified that 21H2 is a separate update for Windows 10 due to release this year. The software giant will release the 21H2 update alongside Windows 11 in the second half of 2021.
It seems that Windows 10 21H2 will not include much for a regular customer. Here is what Microsoft says in the official blog regarding the next feature update for Windows 10:
As you make the move to Windows 11, we will continue to support you as you use Windows 10. In fact, we will release Windows 10, version 21H2 in the second half of 2021 with new updates to current features that enable hybrid work like Universal Print and enhancements to management and deployment features like Windows Autopilot.
The message clearly implies that Microsoft will focus Windows 10 21H2 on business consumers, who probably will not rush upgrading their systems to Windows 11. As a regular consumer, your Windows 10-based PC will continue receiving support. Still, all the new stuff will be on Windows 11.
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