Dell teases new PCs running Windows 11 and outlines upgrades for existing hardware

Dell XPS 15 9500 Review Screen
Dell XPS 15 9500 Review Screen (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Many Dell PCs will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 when it launches later this year.
  • Windows 11 will start rolling out on October 5, 2021.
  • Dell teases new PCs running Windows 11 in a statement.

Following Microsoft announcing October 5, 2021 as an official release date for Windows 11, Dell shared details regarding its PCs updating to the new operating system. After October 5, 2021, most PCs sold on Dell's website will run Windows 11. Additionally, many PCs that can be purchased right now will be able to upgrade to the new OS when it launches.

The minimum requirements of Windows 11 have caused some confusion and frustration. If you're on the hunt for a new PC or want to make sure if your current Dell PC will be able to upgrade, Dell's here to help you out.

Dell specifically highlights that the Dell XPS 13, Alienware x15, and Alienware x17 will be able to upgrade to Windows 11, but many other PCs from Dell will have the option to update this fall. The company has a complete eligibility list of all of its PCs. The list includes business devices like the Latitude lineup, Ultrabooks like the XPS 15, and some of the best gaming desktops such as the Alienware Aurora range of PCs.

Windows 11 will start rolling out on October 5, 2021, but that doesn't mean that every eligible PC will receive the upgrade that day. Dell explains that Microsoft will offer an upgrade to Windows 11 on a rolling basis, meaning that specific timings will vary.

If people prefer to stay on Windows 10, Dell highlights that there's an option to defer the upgrade to a later date.

While the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 should be relatively seamless, Dell Migrate can be used to help transfer data.

In addition to outlining how Windows 11 will roll out to its PCs, Dell teases future computers in its statement. Dell states that it can't talk about it yet but that people should keep an eye out for new Dell PCs running Windows 11. These new devices should be announced in the coming months.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.