Official Windows 11 Review: Users Can Upgrade for Free, Beautiful Interface, and Support for Android Apps

After several beta versions, Windows 11 has officially been released in Vietnam today (10/05). Users in Vietnam can now upgrade to Windows 11 for free on eligible devices. My device, previously running Windows 11 beta, has updated to the official Windows 11 version. Here is the review of Windows 11.

Note: To check if your device is eligible for the update, please refer to the minimum system requirements for installing Win 11.

Explore more:

• Should You Upgrade to Windows 11? Check out the New Features of this OS
• How to Change Mouse Cursor on Windows 11 with Various Eye-catching Styles

Microsoft Introduces a Host of New Features for Windows 11, Integrating AI (Updated: 03/02)

Here's a Quick Summary of the Newly Introduced Features:

Currently, Windows users can easily update to the latest version of Windows. Simply navigate to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Note that only those who have upgraded to Windows 11 22H2 can proceed with this update.

• AI Integration for Windows 11

In the future, the Windows Search tool will be integrated with AI, similar to how we know Bing AI currently operates on the Edge browser. According to Microsoft, all user search needs will now be addressed quickly and easily.

In addition, the Start Menu on Windows 11 now integrates AI. With this change, searching for apps, finding files, app suggestions, ... are now AI-assisted, allowing users to find what they want accurately and quickly. Even File Explorer has been updated for faster local and cloud file searches.

• Phone Link for iOS users

Previously, connecting an iPhone to a Windows computer required Dell Mobile Connect. After Intel acquired the developer company of this application, we now have Intel Unison, and Microsoft, of course, couldn't sit still. Finally, Phone Link also supports iOS. All the features that Android had with Phone Link are now experienced by iOS users as well.

What about Android users? According to Microsoft, Android users will have an even more upgraded experience. Now, Samsung phone users can share Wi-Fi hotspots between their phone and computer with just 2 mouse clicks. Not only that, but continuous web browsing is also possible. If you're reading something on your phone and open your computer, you can continue reading right where you left off on your phone.

• Snipping Tool adds screen recording, Notepad supports tabs

This is something many Windows users have longed for. Now, screen recording will be integrated right into the Snipping Tool, simply use the shortcut Windows + Shift + S and you're done.

Moreover, the legendary Notepad software now supports tabbed opening, making it easier for users to manage without having to open multiple Notepad windows for different content.

Article details: Microsoft adds a host of new features to Windows 11, integrating AI

The official release of Windows 11, users can upgrade for free (updated: 05/10)

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, the official version of Windows 11 has been released to users worldwide, including Vietnam. If you've been following this article regularly, you're probably familiar with most of the new features of Windows 11, such as redesigned interface, improved speed and performance for computers, Snap Layouts, Snap Group features to arrange windows, workspace optimization, ...

According to Microsoft, new devices pre-installed with Windows 11 are also starting to be introduced to users through brands including Asus, HP, Lenovo, Acer, Dell, Samsung, LG, Huawei, and MSI. From now on, users can use Windows 11 through one of the following options:

• Buy a new computer pre-installed with Windows 11.
• Buy a Windows 10 computer that is eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11.
• For current Windows 10 computers in use, use the PC Health Check application PC Health Check to check if the device is eligible for a free upgrade or not.

You may not know, 100% of laptops sold at The Gioi Di Dong come with pre-installed genuine Windows (updated to Windows 11 by Microsoft). If you're looking to buy a laptop for studying and working, click the button below to choose one for yourself. Additionally, for those of you using Windows 10 computers who want to upgrade to the latest Windows 11, feel free to come to The Gioi Di Dong for free update support!

GENUINE LAPTOPS - LICENSED WINDOWS

I have a note for you all, the free Windows 11 update will start rolling out on October 5th and will be carefully phased to ensure quality. By mid-2022, all eligible devices will receive the free Windows 11 update. So, if your device is eligible for the upgrade but hasn't received the Windows 11 update yet, please be patient! In case you can't wait, you can do either of the following two ways.

• Device eligible but hasn't received Windows 11 update invitation from Windows Update

First, you need to access the Windows 11 software download page here. Then, click Download Now under Windows 11 Installation Assistant. A program will appear, just follow the installation instructions.

After installation, your device will restart and begin installing Windows 11. Don't worry if your device freezes, lags slightly, or restarts a few times during the Windows 11 installation process.

• Manually update using Windows 11 ISO file

Similar to the method above, you will still access the Windows 11 software download page and download two items as shown below. Here you can download the official Windows 11 ISO file and the Windows 11 Installation Media Creation Tool. Then, run the Windows 11 Installation Media Creation Tool and follow the instructions. Additionally, you need to prepare a blank USB for this, preferably formatting the USB drive.

However, I advise against trying this method if you have never updated Windows via an ISO file. Because if you do it incorrectly, your computer may encounter errors.

Official launch of Windows 11 Beta, users can download and experience it

After numerous updates for Windows 11 (Dev version for developers), today (07/30), the tech giant headquartered in Redmond has released the first Beta version of the Windows 11 operating system. This Windows 11 Beta version is released to users who have previously registered for the Windows Insider Program. According to Microsoft, the Windows 11 Beta Channel (for regular users) will operate more stably than the Dev version for developers.

To try out the new Windows, your computer must meet the requirements set by Microsoft. Users who have installed the Dev version (for developers) can switch to the Beta version by going to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program and then selecting Beta Channel. Although Microsoft says the Beta version is more stable than the Dev version, the common point of these updates is that they are not highly stable, with many minor bugs and some missing features.

Currently, the device I'm using to install and evaluate Windows 11 is ASUS TUF Gaming A15, with the following configuration:

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H 16-core, clock speed 3.2 GHz.
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060.
• RAM: 16 GB.

Detailed article: Microsoft releases the first Windows 11 Beta, more stable than the Dev version

Review of Windows 11 Insider Preview: What's new in the user interface

• Windows 11 Insider Dev Channel (build version 22000.100) has interface changes

On July 22nd, Windows 11 Insider Dev Channel (build version 22000.100) was released by Microsoft, and I downloaded it to try out. The first change I noticed in this new update is that the hidden icons on the Taskbar have been rounded and more consistent with the overall Windows 11 interface. While this may not be groundbreaking, such small changes will enhance my experience with Windows 11.

Additionally, I noticed a red pill-shaped icon appears when an app is running in the background (instead of the theme color), indicating that the app has some notifications. In case we open the same app twice, for example, opening 2 Outlook windows as shown below, the app will have a visually appealing effect (looks like stairs). Personally, I find this change very subtle, easy on the eyes, and it looks different from previous Windows versions.

Furthermore, Windows 11 Insider Preview (build version 22000.100) also fixes some lingering issues from the previous build, and I'll leave Microsoft's article here for your reference.

• Windows 11 Insider Dev Channel (new build version 22000.71) has undergone some changes and bug fixes

Yesterday (07/16/2021), I updated to the latest build 22000.71 of Windows 11 Insider, and here are some changes I noticed during the experience. Let's get started.

Firstly, the right-click menu (and all context menus in general) have transitioned to using a design called Acrylic Material by Microsoft to create a translucent appearance. Personally, I find this new style much softer compared to the white color in previous builds. How do you feel about this change?

Additionally, I noticed that this Windows 11 update has added a new Entertainment widget, allowing us to see newly released movies in the Microsoft Store. However, personally, I don't use this widget much, and I think many other users won't be too concerned about it either.

Furthermore, the preview images of apps that appear when hovering over icons on the Taskbar have been rounded at the corners, giving a softer, more synchronized look with the Windows 11 design style. While not a significant change, this enhances user experience to some extent.

Some bugs have been fixed in build 22000.71:

- Fixed taskbar stacking apps on top of each other when arranging them.

- Touching and holding icons on the taskbar now works properly with touch input.

- Fixed mouse lag when hovering over the taskbar.

For details on the issues addressed in this Windows 11 update, you can check out the article by the company here (as there are quite a few issues fixed by Microsoft, I cannot cover them all in this post).

• The miraculous Refresh button has made a comeback in Windows 11 Insider Preview (build 22000.65)

In the previous build of Windows 11, I noticed the disappearance of the miraculous Refresh button, which I found quite regrettable (since I have the habit of pressing this button). Fortunately, in Windows 11 Insider Preview (build 22000.65), this feature has reappeared. For those who, like me, have itchy fingers and want to click to feel better, now you can click very conveniently. Refresh also helps our machines operate more smoothly.

Additionally, in this Windows 11 update, the Start menu now has a search toolbar at the top. However, when I click on it, I am taken to the Windows 11 search interface. Honestly, this box seems more like a click to change interface rather than a real search box.

• The Microsoft Office suite has undergone a complete redesign

In recent years, Microsoft has gradually transitioned elements of Windows 10 to the new Fluent design language. However, it wasn't until the launch of Windows 11 that we saw a more widespread application of the Fluent Design language across the system interface and native apps. One of these is the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, etc.) with a completely redesigned interface, looking incredibly beautiful and engaging.

Specifically, in the new menu interface, all existing features are retained but all options use the Fluent Design language to maintain consistency with Windows 11. For example, options like edit, save, undo/redo, share, and many others have been completely refreshed. Additionally, the Office apps feature a new search bar at the top with a cleaner interface and rounded edges. Personally, I think this is the biggest design overhaul for Windows apps in six years, and I absolutely love this change.

The new design will automatically be applied to any users who have enrolled in Microsoft's Office Insider program. If you're interested in the new design of Microsoft Office, you can sign up and try it out. One note is that you should select the Beta channel and download version 2107 Build 14228.20000 to get the new design of Microsoft Office.

• Start Menu Positioned Center Stage

As Microsoft announced, all apps, software, Windows Search, widgets, and the Start button have been relocated to the center. There has been much debate about the placement of the Start Menu in the center, with some liking it and others not. In reality, this isn't too significant anymore because Windows 11 allows us to adjust the position of the Start Menu back to its old spot (depending on each user's usage habits).

The inner layout of the Start Menu has ditched the list of apps and instead presents a grid of recently used apps, arranged below are suggested documents. Personally, I find this change quite convenient for users. Placing the Start Menu in the middle of the screen not only enhances visual appeal but also makes it easier for us to find the tools/tasks/apps we need.

• Action Center and Settings Undergo Dramatic Revamp

From the two images above, we can see that both the Action Center and notification area are completely separated and have entirely new interfaces. Initially, I wasn't used to this change, but after about 15 minutes of use, I found the separation to be a great idea. Having the notification area and Calendar together like this makes managing tasks much easier.

The Settings interface is also one of the major changes in this Windows update. Although the icons have become more vibrant and colorful, personally, I still find this Settings section quite cluttered, especially for first-time Windows users.

Furthermore, the presence of Control Panel is still something I'm not quite fond of (even though this section has undergone significant interface changes). I believe Microsoft should integrate the Control Panel into the Settings section to avoid confusion for new users.

Finally, after 10 years, File Explorer has received a much-needed interface overhaul.

For long-time Windows users, the File Explorer interface has remained relatively unchanged. However, File Explorer in Windows 11 has brought a breath of fresh air to many Windows users, and I'm genuinely surprised by this change.

File Explorer now looks simpler, with fewer buttons and less clutter on the screen, which is really helpful for those new to Windows. The icons inside File Explorer remain similar to the previous leaked version, but the ribbon toolbar has been minimized to include only essential features.

Another thing that I highly appreciate in File Explorer on Windows 11 Insider Preview is that the right-click menu now features illustrated icons for each task, making it easy for me to anticipate specific functions.

What's new in Windows 11 Insider Preview?

To be honest, listing all the new features of Windows 11 Insider Preview in this article alone is not enough. That's why I'm only reviewing the new features in Windows 11 Insider Preview that I'm truly impressed with. If you have any additional feedback, feel free to leave a comment below.

• Smoother multitasking but lacks good support for third-party apps

Undoubtedly, this is one of the features that I personally like the most, and probably many other Windows users too. Specifically, Windows 11 brings a new Snap Layouts feature that allows me to choose layouts to run multiple apps at once. For example, opening 2 apps side by side, 3 apps in column format, or 4 apps in grid format.

I only need to hover over the maximize button to easily utilize this Snap feature, but this only applies to default Windows apps, while third-party apps are not supported yet. Therefore, to multitask with third-party software, I have to select any default app first before multitasking. Hopefully, upcoming updates of Windows 11 can address this issue.

Additionally, the Taskbar will be optimized for touch gestures, as per information from Microsoft's article, which outlines the specific gestures as follows:

- Using 3 fingers on the screen:

• Swipe left/right to switch between active apps.
• Swipe down to return to the home screen.
• Swipe up to open Task View for multitasking.

- Utilizing 4 fingers on the screen:

• Swipe left/right to switch to a different desktop.
• Swipe up/down functions similarly to the 3-finger gesture (return to home screen and open multitasking).

Personally, I find these new touch gestures quite convenient, especially for those using 2-in-1 laptop models (laptops that can be converted into tablets and vice versa).

• Microsoft Store now allows installing Android apps, but...

As we all know, with Windows 11, Microsoft has partnered with Amazon to integrate the Amazon app store into the Microsoft Store. Thanks to this, Windows 11 can run Android apps directly on the device without the need for emulation software. In this Windows 11 Insider Preview version, I tried searching for the TikTok app on the Microsoft Store, and I was pleasantly surprised to find it available.

However, the excitement didn't last long as I felt a bit disappointed when installing TikTok on my computer. Specifically, the interface of this app when installed on the computer is still just the web version, not resembling the smartphone interface. Perhaps this is the first beta version of Windows 11, so this feature will likely be gradually improved in the coming months, I hope so.

These were some notable highlights of the Windows 11 Insider Preview update. I'm still exploring this Windows version further, and if there are any new features, I'll share them right away. Stay tuned, folks!

Note: The article will continue to be updated until the official release of Windows 11.

Check out more:

• Compilation of new shortcuts on Windows 11 to help you operate faster
• How to edit photos on Windows 11 without needing additional software
• 3 ways to speed up SSD on Windows 11 for a faster and smoother computer experience