Windows 11 arrives later this year -- it runs Android apps

It wasn't a big surprise anymore due to all the leaks of the past couple of weeks, but today Microsoft confirmed that the next Windows update is indeed called Windows 11. This new version will be offered later this year as a free upgrade.

New design, better multitasking, and Android support

There is a new design and Microsoft is introducing a couple of new multitasking features like Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Desktops. The goal here is to aid you to organize your windows and optimize your screen real estate. Desktops will allow you to create separate desktops, for example, you could create one for work, gaming, or school.

Skype will be removed in Windows 11 -- Microsoft is doubling down on Teams instead. There will be some new gaming features, including Auto HDR and DirectStorage.

The Microsoft Store is getting a big overhaul too and will allow app developers to use their own payment system, so they don't have to pay a commission to Microsoft. The other big news is that Android apps will be supported in Windows 11. This will be made possible via cooperation with Amazon and Intel. The latter cooked up Intel Bridge technology to make Android apps run on Windows 11.

We’re also pumped to announce that we are bringing Android apps to Windows for the first time. Starting later this year, people will be able to discover Android apps in the Microsoft Store and download them through the Amazon Appstore – imagine recording and posting a video from TikTok or using Khan Academy Kids for virtual learning right from your PC. We’ll have more to share about this experience in the coming months. We look forward to this partnership with Amazon and Intel using their Intel Bridge technology.

Full details at the Windows Blog.