14 DAY TRIAL // Windows 11 will obviously come with a series of changes in terms of features as compared to Windows 10, and in a tech support document, Microsoft provides us with a closer look at these changes in its new operating system.
First and foremost, worth knowing is that Internet Explorer, the ancient browser that’s already projected to be retired, will be completely disabled in Windows 11, with Microsoft Edge to be offered as the default option. The built-in IE mode also allows it to replace Internet Explorer on all devices.
Then, Microsoft says Cortana will no longer be pinned to the taskbar or included in the first-boot experience, which kind of makes sense, especially as the company was already working on making the digital assistant a second-class citizen of its operating system.
Start menu changes
The Start menu is also going through a major transformation. Not only that it borrows the design from Windows 10X, so it’s now centered, but the Start menu also gives up on live tiles, with Microsoft saying users can now stick with widgets in Windows 11. Named groups and folders of apps are no longer supported, and the layout of the Start menu isn’t resizable (though the company doesn’t exclude adding such an option in the future). And last but not least, pinned apps and sites wouldn’t be migrated if you upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
Microsoft has also removed quick status from the lockscreen, and the Snipping Tool will remain in the operating system but with the new Snip & Sketch UI.
The tablet mode has been completely removed in Windows 11, and Microsoft explains the taskbar no longer features a People icon. Apps can no longer customize areas of the taskbar.
The Timeline has been completely removed in Windows 11, and so is the Wallet, as Microsoft is trying to stick only with features that make sense in the long term.