Windows 11 Upgrade Eligibility Check: What You Need to Know

Before upgrading to Windows 11, it's essential to check your device's eligibility for the upgrade. Microsoft provides a comprehensive list of requirements that devices must meet in order to be eligible for the upgrade. In this article, we'll break down what you need to know about the Windows 11 upgrade eligibility check.

Device Requirements

To experience the full functionality of Windows 11, your device must meet certain minimum specifications. The most critical requirement is a compatible operating system - specifically, Windows 10 or later (including the May 2019 Update). Additionally, your device must have an NVMe SSD to store and run games that use the Standard NVM Express Controller driver and a DirectX12 GPU with Shader Model 6.0 support.

Phone Link Requirements

If you're planning to use Phone Link, which allows you to connect your Android or iOS device to your Windows 11 PC, you'll need to ensure your devices meet certain requirements. For Android phones, you'll need to be running Android 7.0 or later. For iPhone users, you'll need an iPhone with iOS 14 or higher and a Bluetooth connection.

Region-Specific Requirements

Features and app availability may vary by region, so it's essential to check what's available in your area before upgrading. Some features, such as HDR (High Dynamic Range) support, require an HDR monitor and are only supported on titles using the DirectX 11 or later API.

Previous Windows Versions

If you're currently running a previous version of Windows, you'll need to do a full reset of the Windows 11 operating system for the feature to work. This is because some layouts may not be compatible with older versions of Windows. Additionally, some features may only be available on the latest version of Windows 11.

Fresh Start

To keep your device as safe as possible, Microsoft recommends starting with a fresh system when upgrading to Windows 11. This means you'll need to erase all data from your current operating system and install Windows 11 from scratch.

Device Support Period

The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) provides support for devices during a specific period. During this time, you may be able to access certain features and apps that are only available on the latest version of Windows 11.

Narrator Natural Voices

The Narrator natural voices feature is not universally available, with availability varying by market. You can check the supported languages and voices in Appendix A: Supported languages and voices.

In conclusion, upgrading to Windows 11 requires careful consideration of your device's eligibility for the upgrade. By understanding the requirements outlined above, you'll be better equipped to ensure a smooth transition to the latest version of Windows.