Microsoft Build 2021: Here’s everything we’ve learned so far
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What you need to know
Another year, another Build conference. Microsoft Build 2021 isofficially underwayand will be going strong from May 25 to May 27. It’s open to all andregistration is free, meaning you can witness over 300 sessions' worth of information firsthand.
Though the conference is mainly focused on technology topics targeting developers, the occasional announcement crops up that interests consumers and everyday Windows users. From Teams news to teases about the future of Windows, here’s everything of note that’s been announced so far.
The future of Windows is discussed
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadellahinted at big Windows newscoming in the near future. He called the teased project “one of the most significant updates to Windows of the past decade.” It’s being referred to as the “next generation” of Windows (note the lack of a Windows 10-specific mention).
Edge improvements
Microsoft outlined a few ways that Edge is improving its browser game. Features such asStartup Boost and Sleeping Tabswill help keep the browser running well on low-end hardware.
Project Reunion 0.8 preview is announced
A newpreview version of the Project Reunionapp framework was announced at Build 2021. The preview provides support for WinUI 3 and WebView2, as well as .NET 5 applications.
Windows Terminal 1.9 preview arrives
A newpreview build for the Windows Terminalapp has arrived. Terminal can now be set as the default terminal emulator, among other updates. There’s a new feature called Quake mode and more nifty upgrades to the app packed inside the latest preview.
Teams gets a smattering of goodies
Microsoft Teams updates are coming to make life easier for users and developers. New features for Teams' Toolkit for Visual Studio and Visual Studio Code, fluid components, shared stage integration, and more were detailed. Be sure to check out our full roundup ofMicrosoft Teams Build 2021 announcementsfor the full scoop.
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Linux GUI app support is shipping
Microsoft announced thatLinux GUI application supportis now generally available in the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2. It’s been in preview for a while, but it’s officially out in the wild as of today. This means devs won’t have to worry about dual-booting a Linux and Windows system since everything can be done on top of Windows.
In case all of those announcements weren’t enough, you can also check out our list of recommendedMicrosoft Build 2021 sessions, which will provide you with even more Build news for both general enthusiasts and developers.
See all the big announcements from Build 2021
Robert Carnevale is the News Editor for Windows Central. He’s a big fan of Kinect (it lives on in his heart), Sonic the Hedgehog, and the legendary intersection of those two titans, Sonic Free Riders. He is the author ofCold War 2395. Have a useful tip? Send it to robert.carnevale@futurenet.com.
