Windows
3 Hints That the Major Windows Update is Windows 11

Published
2 years agoon
By
Chris Rausch
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When Windows 10 was released back in 2015, Microsoft asserted that it would be the last in the numbered Window product line. However, it now appears that the “next generation of Windows” will actually be a successor – not an update.
Microsoft has been talking about a major update that was coming to Windows for weeks now. After they scrapped Windows 10X and its new user interface with new assets, many users expected “Sun Valley ” to just be a UI overhaul. But, recent media releases by Microsoft hint at the highly anticipated “next generation” being Windows 11 rather than an update to Windows 10.
Hint 1: Microsoft Build
At Microsoft Build earlier this month, CEO Satya Nadella gave a date for an update on “the next generation of Windows” – June 24th. During his speech, the CEO teased that the announcement would relate to an update that rivals the release of Windows 10 as the most significant update in a decade. Since Windows 8 and Windows 10 have been released in this timeframe, it would make sense that a new Windows would be the only update that could compare.
Hint 2: Windows Logo and Startup Teases
Microsoft is well aware of the mystery surrounding their new update – so much so that they are stoking the fire. Windows recently put out an image (pictured above) that shows the Windows logo creating an “11”-shaped light on the ground as well as an 11-minute video that slows down all the Windows startup noises from throughout its history. The presence of “11” in both pieces of media is almost certainly hinting at Windows 11 – or they’re intentionally misleading us.
Hint 3: Windows 10 Has an End of Service Date
A piece of documentation from Microsoft’s official docs is now listing a “retirement date” which will signal the end of official support and updates for the operating system. The date – October 14, 2025 – is a little more than 10 years after Windows 10 was released, but is coming up quickly after 6 years of Windows 10. This could mean that another official operating system from Microsoft is coming to succeed it and minimize the need for support past 2025.
In my 4+ years as a professional tech copywriter, I've written about everything from laptops & routers to the software that facilitates billions in online sales each day. If it relates to, connects to, or belongs on the Internet, I'm in. Equipped with my Associate's in Computer Science and a computer I assembled myself (no big deal), I write about all things hardware, software, gaming, and digital tech to keep you up-to-date on important news, releases, and tips & tricks.

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Video Games
Xbox’s Windows App Receives Cloud Gaming and Remote Play

Published
2 years agoon
September 17, 2021By
Chris Rausch
Whether you’ve been unable to get your hands on a new Xbox or just want to play your games somewhere other than at your console, the newest Xbox app update for Windows PCs is for you.
As of September 14th, Windows users can download an update to their Xbox app that enables Cloud Gaming and Remote Play. This update opens up the possibility of playing games on desktops, laptops, and Windows mobile devices as long as you have the app installed and an Xbox-compliant controller to plug in. It also integrates with Xbox Game Bar for easy Xbox Network access and simulates your Xbox dashboard for older consoles, providing a nostalgic experience for classic titles.
You may be wondering what the difference is between Cloud Gaming and Remote Play – and rightfully so. Both features implement wireless streaming of titles from Xbox 360 through Xbox Series X|S, but who can use them and when each option makes the most sense for you varies.
Xbox Cloud Gaming
Formerly xCloud, Xbox Cloud Gaming is an entirely wireless way to stream games to any device with a web browser or the Xbox app, now including PCs directly without the browser requirement. You do not need to own an Xbox console to make use of Xbox Cloud Gaming because titles are streamed directly from Microsoft datacenters to your device, which leads to optimal graphic performance on any display and a lower barrier of entry for gamers. However, you’re likely to face latency problems that may degrade the experience of multiplayer games.
Xbox Remote Play
Xbox Remote Play lets you stream games from your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One through your home network to your device, which requires the Xbox app itself instead of browser functionality. This method does require that you own a console and limits the graphic output based on your console’s specs, but minimizes the latency experienced in comparison to Cloud Gaming which makes it more appealing for online play.
Tech
Windows 11 Is Coming October 5th – Here’s How to Upgrade

Published
2 years agoon
September 3, 2021By
Chris Rausch
It’s official – Windows 11 has a release date.
Microsoft announced that the long-awaited next generation of Windows operating system is coming on October 5th to the general public. While the demo version has been available to download or simulate through your browser for over a month now, the official release should see a more reliable, bug-free, and better user experience that sets the standard for Windows systems going forward.
The operating system is expected to be available as a free update to existing Windows users with a valid license for at least a year before paid upgrades and standalone keys will be available. So if you’d prefer to wait and see what happens with the public release before you upgrade your system, you have plenty of time.
But if you’re looking to jump into the next generation as soon as possible, here’s what you’ll need to do to ensure you’re ready for October 5th.
How to Prepare for Windows 11
Meet the System Requirements
The next generation of operating systems doesn’t require the most advanced hardware, but there are minimum system requirements to run WIndows 11 effectively. These include a duo-core processor and 4GB of RAM, which is standard in many modern laptops and desktops but may limit how many older devices are compatible.
Windows Insider users can use the PC Health Check tool to check their hardware automatically. This tool is likely to be released to the public again soon which will allow you to check compatibility and also evaluate your system’s overall health at a glance.
Verify Your Windows License
To upgrade to Windows 11, you need a legal and active Windows 10 license. Without it, the prompt to update your operating system in Windows Updates will not be available (and updates won’t be handled automatically if you do find a way to upgrade).
Update On October 5th to Windows 11
For most users, qualifying for the Windows 11 official release will be easy. Just like all major Windows updates, you can navigate to settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to reach the update screen. Here you’ll find both major and minor updates that are available to install as well as the option to check for updates.
If you elect to upgrade on release date, you may have to search for updates manually. Otherwise, it should appear as an available update whenever you decide to make the leap. But there’s no rush – Windows 11 updates will be available until 2022.
Microsoft
Windows 11 May Help You Get More Done with Focus Sessions

Published
2 years agoon
August 11, 2021By
Chris Rausch
Looking to be more productive with your computer time? Windows 11 will have a convenient way for you to manage your schedule – Focus Sessions.
Focus Sessions is a feature that will be added to the “Clock” app’s base functionality, allowing the app to help organize your time. Users can easily create to-do lists, set timers, and set a soundtrack to their work thanks to Spotify integration.
When activated, Focus Sessions will suppress notification sounds, pop ups, and other distractions to help you stay focused for the entirety of your task’s time block. The timer starts at 30 minutes by default, but can be adjusted based on each individual task or period of time you plan to work. Each task can also have its own Spotify playlist, letting you choose the right tunes for the type of work you have to complete without causing a distraction.
Based on the Pomodoro Technique, the goal of the feature is that you’ll be able to work for a shorter but defined amount of time, focusing entirely on the task until your break comes up. You’ll be motivated by the upcoming break and don’t have to worry about managing your time or staying on schedule; when you hear the alarm, you’re done. This way you can better define work time and free time so that you don’t spend twice as much time working for the same result.
With the rise of working from home, organizational apps like Focus Sessions are an important tool to help you stay focused when you’re not in your work environment. Thanks to native integration on Windows 11, it’s easy to start working smarter instead of harder.