Windows 11 first major update incoming — here's what you'll get

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Windows 11 is getting taskbar enhancements and Android app support next month

an image of a Windows 11 laptop
(Image credit: Microsoft)

Update: Windows 11 will let you test experimental features that may never be released.

Since its launch last October, Windows 11 has gone from strength to strength with a slew of smaller updates adding useful features like improved multitasking and the return of Clippy. There’s more to come as Microsoft has now detailed what will be included in the operating system's first major update. 

The post continues by outlining the new features that will be coming to Windows 11 at some point next month. The biggest of these include “a public preview of how you can use Android apps on Windows 11” as well as requested improvements to the taskbar, the return of the weather tool to the taskbar and redesigned apps for Notepad and Media Player. 

Most of these features have been in testing via the Windows Insider program for the past few months, but it’s good to get confirmation that they will be rolled out to the general public in the next few weeks. We definitely don’t expect these to be the last updates and tweaks Windows 11 receives in 2022 either. The operating system is likely to receive a host of improvements across the next 12 months. 

These are all good indications that the operating system has been warmly received by early adopters. We’re not too surprised, as there's plenty to like about Windows 11. In Windows 11  review, we highlighted its attractive new look, improved tools for managing screen space and intuitive menus. 

We did have concerns about a number of missing features at launch, including the lack of Android app support. But we’re pleased to see Microsoft taking strides to remedy these issues with regular updates. 

The upcoming February update detailed above should go some way to convincing you to upgrade to Windows 11 if you’ve not already taken the plunge. 

Rory Mellon
Rory Mellon
Senior Entertainment Editor (UK)

Rory is a Senior Entertainment Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on gaming and streaming. When he’s not reviewing the latest games, searching for hidden gems on Netflix, or writing hot takes on new gaming hardware, TV shows and movies, he can be found attending music festivals and getting far too emotionally invested in his favorite football team.