Microsoft’s Windows remains the undisputed king when it comes to desktop operating systems, standing in at a monopolistic 73% market share, at least according to the latest data , and for good reason.
It therefore, goes without saying that any Windows announcement is met with a lot of attention from the whole tech scene as it effectively points at the direction that most of the industry will be moving towards owing to the ubiquity of this operating system.
Back in 2015, we saw Microsoft unveil Windows 10, along with the announcement that this was going to be the last version of Windows as thereon, the company would maintain this system as a service. And sure enough, Windows 10 has slowly but surely evolved over the years, all while remaining the same for the most part.
Now, these past few weeks have been a buzz in the Microsoft camp following the leak of an alleged Windows 11 build, along with teasers from the company, all hinting at a new operating system. The big event slated for June 24 has just been concluded and sure enough, we have been treated to a spanking new version of Windows, Windows 11.
So what’s new in Windows 11? Well, quite a bit, and not a whole lot really. Let’s dig in.
Redesigned Windows
Well, it wouldn’t be a new version of Windows if Windows remained the same, right? See, Windows hasn’t changed much over the years, probably in a bid to not alienate the millions of users across the globe with drastic changes, so we often see subtle refinements and tweaking with each new release.
Windows 11 comes with new rounded corners for Windows, icons and more, giving the whole UI a more ‘soft’ look and feel. There is a new theming engine that brings back the glass-like interface we first saw with Windows Vista, a look that later morphed into Aero on Windows 7.
A redesigned Snap feature also aims to help users be more organized as they use Windows 11. Hovering your mouse over the maximize button on the title bar will offer you the option to snap your windows in a bunch of ways.
Windows 11 is also set to play nice on touchscreen displays. The taskbar icons space themselves out a little more when the trackpad is detached on touchscreen devices. This allows users better precision. Additionally, there are subtle UI responses to touch inputs so you don’t have to guess whether your touch has been registered.
A better onscreen keyboard experience has also been announced for Windows 11 and we cannot wait to see how well this works.
Centered Start Menu and Start Button
The Start button has been a key part of Windows since the very early builds in the early 90s. Over the years, Microsoft has been trying out new things and in Windows 11, the company is taking yet another crack at it, this time a more modest approach.
Started from the bottom (left), now we’re here. #Windows11 pic.twitter.com/2mon89dnjN — Microsoft (@Microsoft) June 24, 2021
Gone are the live-tiles that debuted in Windows 8 and stuck around through Windows 10 and now, the Start Menu is…well….simple. The Start button and Start menu is now centered on the taskbar, a move that, in my opinion, gives this new version of Windows a more macOS look.
Themes
Windows 11 redesigns Windows’ legacy theming engine and supercharges the dark mode we have currently on Windows 10. The glass-inspired user interface is appealing to say the least.
Windows 11 Dark mode
While not confirmed, we got a feeling of wallpaper-inspired color schemes throughout the Windows 11 demo. Could this be Microsoft’s swing at what we’ve seen Google doing with Android 11’s Material You design language?
Redesigned, simplified Microsoft Store
Linux users have the Snap Store, Android users have Google Play Store and Microsoft is looking to simplify the process of installing apps on Windows with this new release.
The Microsoft Store now offers developers simple ways to enlist their apps, effectively offering users a repository of certified apps. This means you no longer have to scout the internet, picking installers from various hosting sites just to install your favorite apps.
At launch, Microsoft says the Adobe Suite of apps will be available from the Microsoft Store, perhaps an indication of the level of seriousness the company is putting into this one.
Additionally, Microsoft says that developers can use their own “commerce engines,” and Microsoft won’t take a cut; devs can even use their own payment systems if they want to. This is big in this era of Apple and its antitrust issues.
Support for Android apps
Yes, Windows will now support Android apps, effectively taking on Chrome OS and rendering services like Bluestacks obsolete. Of course, no support for Google Play Services but you bet some developer somewhere will find a way to make this work.
Microsoft Teams is now baked into Windows 11
Zoom is probably one of the biggest success stories of this whole global crisis period but it is far from the only player in the space. Microsoft’s Skype has been doing this for years and we even saw tight intergation into Windows 8.
Now, Microsoft Teams is the new favorite child and this is heavily integrated into Windows 11. The demo showed Teams being used to message family and friends and demonstrated the ease of casually starting a video call.
Teams has often been associated with the workplace as it features so many tools geared towards the virtual office meeting. How well this works in a world where Zoom is reigning supreme and Apple’s Facetime is slowly reaching out to users outside the ecosystem remains to be seen.
Gaming
The XBox is still a pretty important product in the Microsoft ecosystem and we were bound to see some convergence between Windows and XBox in Windows 11.
Perhaps the most interesting announcement was Auto-HDR. According to Microsoft, Windows 11 will support Auto-HDR, a feature that made its debut on XBox recently, as long as your Windows 11 machine meets the requirements.
However, your PC must be able to support DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 games for this to work.
Quality of life improvements
Windows has matured over the years and as such, we’re less likely to see huge feature sets, but the little improvements and enhancements are bound to improve the quality of life.
- Windows updates have always been a pain. They take ages to download and installation is often fussy at best. In Windows 11, Microsoft promises 40% lighter updates, saving you download time and bandwidth.
- In a move seemingly inspired by Google Discover, Microsoft is bringing Windows Widgets to Windows 11, along with touch gestures that give you personalized, AI-powered feeds.
Conclusion
Windows 11 is still very early in its development and as such, there are so many details we still don’t know about. Additionally, pre-release often drops and gains features before the official release so Windows 11’s complete form is still not clear at the moment.
While this is exciting stuff, we have to wait for the Insider builds before we can have a proper feel of the new operating system.
Availability of Windows 11
You might first want to check if your PC is compatible by downloading and installing the PC Health Check App from Microsoft.
With regards to the release date, Microsoft says that Windows 11 will be rolled out to users running Windows 10 sometime over the holiday season.
I’m a tech enthusiast and digital explorer based in Kenya passionate about Android, Linux, and the world of custom ROMs. I love tinkering with devices to craft personalized, optimized experiences. When I’m not deep in code or tweaking gadgets, you’ll find me immersed in science fiction, philosophy, or writing about the ever-evolving tech landscape from an African perspective.
Type your email…
Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
Type your email…
The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
Type your email…
