During a virtual event yesterday, Microsoft officially announced Windows 11, the latest generation of its all-conquering PC platform. Windows 11 will enter preview next week, will launch this fall, and be available as a free upgrade for Windows 10 users.
Microsoft has released the hardware specifications needed to upgrade to Windows 11, and it seems there is a webcam requirement coming into effect in 2023 and requirements around Bluetooth. We will start with the list of the general requirements:
- A modern 64-bit processor. Windows 11 is only a 64-bit platform, with no 32-bit version.
- 1Ghz clock speed
- 2 cores
- 64GB drive
- 4GB RAM
- UEFI, Secure Book capable & TPM 2.0
- 9-inch display with 1366×768 resolution
- DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x
Most of that is standard stuff that most Windows 10 laptops will meet. However, it seems Windows 11 will have some requirements that may cause problems from some laptop owners. One is that all laptops and tablets (not desktops) running Windows 11 will need to have a front-facing webcam by January 1, 2023.
Other Requirements
Furthermore, webcams should be in HD resolution (720p, 1280 x 720) and a 1:1 aspect ratio. Other camera requirements include auto exposure and auto white-balance. There are also specific requirements for devices featuring camera buttons, which should be able to wake the devices.
Other requirements include Windows 11 laptops needing to have Bluetooth 4.0 support or higher and have support for the Precision Touchpad. Furthermore, Windows 11 will have to have Wi-Fi or internet connectivity.
Tip of the day: File History is a Windows 10 back up feature that saves each version of files in the Documents, Pictures, Videos, Desktop, and Offline OneDrive folders. Though its name implies a primary focus on version control, you can actually use it as a fully-fledged backup tool for your important documents.
