14 DAY TRIAL // Intel is obviously one of the companies playing a critical role in the release strategy for Windows 11, as the company needs to provide users out there with fully up-to-date drivers supporting the new operating system.
Microsoft has already confirmed that select 7th-gen as well as all 8th-gen and newer processors are supported by Windows 11, with the company explaining that unsupported hardware with old drivers is one of the reasons not everybody is getting the new operating system.
Intel is working around the clock on preparing its drivers for Windows 11, and earlier this month, the company rolled out new graphics drivers compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
However, on Windows 11, only the aforementioned chips are supported, with more information shared by Intel on this page.
Windows 11 and the driver struggle
Microsoft explains that it tried to determine if older hardware can cope with Windows 11, but the company eventually found that an older processor with outdated drivers comes with an increased likelihood of crashes.
“From Windows Insider machines, those that did not meet the minimum system requirements had 52% more kernel mode crashes (blue screens) than those that did meet the requirements. Machines that met the requirements provided a 99.8% crash-free experience that is effectively managed by OEMs and IHVs through modern driver update management. Additionally, on unsupported hardware app hangs are 17% more likely and for first-party apps we see 43% more crashes,” Microsoft said.
Windows 11 is projected to be finalized as soon as the next month, while the rollout to production devices out there should kick off in October.
Needless to say, we should expect all OEMs out there to come up with updated drivers for their hardware, especially as the release of Windows 11 is expected to generate a substantial increase in terms of sales, not only for new PCs but also for peripherals and other components.