Upgrade to Windows 11? Only if Microsoft makes these changes
I’ve installed the preview version of Windows 11 on a secondary drive, but I’ve yet to decide whether to use it on my main drive when it’s officially launched. I like it, but Microsoft will still have to make significant changes to persuade me.
The first thing it needs to address is the taskbar (see screenshot), which you should be able to move to the top of the screen. Also, I wish Microsoft would stop hedging its bets between the Settings app and Control Panel. It should give up on the latter (as it clearly wants to do), and move all essential options into Settings. Jumping between the two is a pain.
I was hoping the search function might have improved, but no. It still combines files, settings and web results without actually showing what you’re looking for. Another downside is forcing everyone - Home and Pro users – to have a Microsoft account. Not everyone has a need for an account.
So, the jury’s out. But I’m hopeful. The whole point of previews is to get feedback about what works, and what needs tweaking. Some of these problems are bound to be ironed out before the final version is released. Clive Pound
CA SAYS Clive’s view is typical of many readers who have tried the Windows 11 preview. They like it, but with major reservations. We’ll let you know what improvements Microsoft makes as the launch date approaches. One of our main concerns is that Microsoft will start neglecting Windows 10 the minute Windows 11 is available. This should worry anyone keen to stick with Windows 10, so in our next Cover Feature (out Weds 11 August) we’ll explain how you can keep Windows 10 up to date even if Microsoft abandons it early.