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Surprise: Windows 11 is available a day early

If you didn't want to wait until tomorrow, Microsoft just did you a huge favor.
By
October 4, 2021
windows 11
Microsoft
TL;DR
  • Microsoft just made the official Windows 11 downloads available.
  • That’s a day earlier than expected. The originally announced launch date was October 5, 2021.
  • If you have newer hardware, you might see the update available very soon. Newer hardware might take a while.

Months ago, Microsoft officially revealed it would launch the latest version of Windows on October 5, 2021. Two weeks ago, it launched a bunch of new hardware that supports the new Windows, all of which is slated to release on October 5, too.

However, it looks like Microsoft just couldn’t wait, as Windows 11 is available right now (via The Verge). That’s a day earlier than expected.

See also: How to put Windows on Chromebook devices

If you have a newer Windows 10 PC, you might be able to check Windows Update and see if Windows 11 is there waiting for you. If you can’t find it — or have an older PC — you can try to upgrade manually using the Installation Assistant.

Unfortunately, those of you who have older PCs and don’t want to manually upgrade will need to wait quite a while. Although Microsoft plans to give as many people as it can a free upgrade to the new Windows, it’s giving itself until the second half of 2022 to complete the rollout. As such, it could be a year or even longer before some folks are able to upgrade automatically.

Do note that this surprise launch of the software does not affect the previously announced Microsoft hardware. The new Surface tablets and laptops are still landing tomorrow.