Microsoft sets Oct. 5 as Windows 11 launch date

Microsoft confirmed that Windows 11 will be available on new PCs and as a free upgrade starting Oct. 5.

Why it matters: PC makers usually plan new models around updates to Windows, and it's been a while since there has been a major new release.

The big picture: Computer makers will start marketing their computers as "ready for Windows 11" ahead of that time and all those machines — plus millions of existing ones — can be upgraded for free.

Catch up quick: Previewed back in June, Windows 11 is the biggest update to Microsoft's flagship operating system in years, adding support for Android apps and built-in Microsoft Teams video chat, along with other changes.