Microsoft support document confirms 'Windows 11' name
It could only be an internal name, but Microsoft looks sets to continue its numbering scheme
Microsoft is set to unveil the next-generation of its Windows operating system on 24th June, and while the company hasn't officially disclosed the name, an accidentally published support document has confirmed the title of 'Windows 11'.
According to Windows Latest, Microsoft's modern documentation service on GitHub published an Azure document including a taxonomy of Microsoft products, including references to Windows 11 - although this may also be an internal name.
Although the document has since been removed from GitHub, its screengrabs are still circulating in media reports.
The confirmation of Windows 11 comes about a week after an updated Windows lifecycle document from Microsoft revealed that the company is set to end support for Windows 10 Home, Pro, Pro Education and Pro for Workstations in October 2025.
The document said Microsoft would 'continue to support at least one Windows 10 Semi-Annual Channel until October 14, 2025.'
Last month, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella teased major enhancements to Microsoft's OS at Build 2021, promising that the next version of Windows would offer more opportunities for creators and developers.
Nadella said he had been personally testing "the most significant updates to Windows" for several months, and was "incredibly excited" about it.
Screenshots of Microsoft's Windows 11 developer preview leaked online last week. They confirmed a subtly redesigned interface, including changes in the alignment of the Start menu and taskbar buttons.
According to The Verge, the user interface and Start menu in the new OS look very similar to what was originally spotted in Windows 10X.
The most noticeable changes can be found along the taskbar, where app icons have been centred and the tray area cleaned up.
This updated Start menu includes pinned apps, recent files and the option to quickly shut down or restart.
Other changes include rounded corners for a variety of system menus, as well as legacy features like Device Manager and Control Panel.
Microsoft is also said to be working on new gesture controls and an improved window snapping experience, as per the leaked build and documentation.
Torrents of the leaked Windows 11 developer preview build are still available for download on numerous websites. Microsoft has issued multiple DMCA takedown notices, but hasn't released a public statement on the issue.