Here's when you can start testing Windows 11

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Windows 11 won't arrive until this fall, but you can start testing it next week.

Windows 11 Install
Windows 11 Install (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft just announced Windows 11.
  • The first Insider builds of the new operating system will be avaialble starting next week.
  • Windows 11 has several new features that people will be anxious to try out.
  • Microsoft's Chief Product Officer Panos Panay also shared a special message on YouTube for Windows Insiders.

Microsoft unveiled Windows 11 today. The new operating system has tons of new features, including a new Start menu, new Taskbar, improvements for gaming, widgets, and more. Many are itching to get their hands on the new OS to try it out. Fortunately, people won't have to wait that long to test it.

The Windows Insider Twitter account confirms that the first Windows 11 Insider preview builds will ship next week. The account doesn't specify an exact date, but our senior editor Zac Bowden says that it could potentially be on June 28, 2021.

A Windows blog post explains what people need to do to get their PCs ready for Insider builds. Notably, Windows 11 has new minimum hardware requirements. You can use the PC Health Check app to see if your system meets the requirements.

While there are new minimum requirements, some people will be able to try out Windows 11 on older hardware. If you were already running Insider builds from the Dev Channel up to June 24, you'll be able to install Windows 11 Insider preivew builds even if your PC doesn't meet system requirements. Microsoft says this is a thank you for sharing feedback through the Insider program.

As you'd expect, using hardware that doesn't meet minimum requirements may result in some bugs and issues.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.