We’ve had our first glances of the next update to the Windows 10 operating system that’s due to drop sometime later this year. In posts that have now been deleted on the Windows Tips app and a Tweet, rounded corners are seen on the Windows Terminal app and the WiFi settings app.
The next big Windows update, codenamed “Sun Valley” is due in the second half of 2021 and has been touted to offer a sweeping visual rejuvenation of the Windows experience, according to various Microsoft posts.
Windows Latest, that first reported the story managed to grab photos of the newly redesigned operating system, says that screenshots and mockups such as these aren’t a guarantee. However, due to the number of different sources involved, the new softer-edged Windows design is likely to be coming our way.
- Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event announced for April promising "the most powerful Galaxy"
- Apple 'Spring Loaded' event is official for April 20th – here's what to expect
- Xbox Series X restock UK: consoles are in stock here but HURRY
For us, the return to a friendlier Windows 7 style is definitely a good thing for the platform. Though we’re sure rounded edges won’t be the only change coming to the new update, it’s certainly a positive sign.
Windows has undergone some big design changes since its launch in 1985, notably the update from 3.1 to 95, in 1995, to XP in 2001 and more recently the release of 8 in 2012. Windows 10 was launched in 2015, meaning it has been nearly six-year since the platform had a major refresh. Instead, Windows 10 moved to a series of smaller updates, in a similar method to the regular Mac OSX updates. While a Windows 11 is unlikely anytime soon, the Sun Valley update could be the biggest in some time.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
This Versace fragrance was top of my Christmas list – it's almost $50 cheaper in early Cyber Monday deal
Pick up the iconic Versace Eros for less this weekend at Walmart
By Sam Cross Published
-
Nespresso’s best pod coffee machine is under $100 in Cyber Monday deal
Get 37% off the Nespresso Vertuo Pod+ in Best Buy’s Cyber Monday sale
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Bluetooth gets a huge upgrade that better helps you find your phone and other devices
Bluetooth 6.0 will be able to tell distances to improve Find My services
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
Millions of Windows users warned of date they'll have to change operating systems
Windows 10's death has been announced, here's when you'll have to swap to Windows 11 to keep receiving security updates
By Andy Sansom Published
-
Best laptops under $500 2024
The best laptops under $500 that offer a great balance of power and performance at budget-friendly prices
By Robert Jones Last updated
-
Android 10 is out now. Here's all the awesome new features coming to your Google Pixel
Android 10 is available now for Google Pixel owners
By David Nield Published
-
WWDC 2019 live stream: watch Apple unveil iOS 13, macOS 10.15 here now
Apple has kickstarted its World Wide Developer Conference today, here's how to watch the opening keynote – even if you didn't manage to snag a ticket
By Aaron Brown Published
-
WWDC 2019 invites stay tight-lipped about all the features coming in iOS 13
Apple has mailed-out invitations for its annual World Wide Developer Conference next month
By Aaron Brown Published
-
macOS Mojave vs Windows 10: Apple and Microsoft's desktop operating systems, head to head
What do the latest versions of these platforms have to offer?
By David Nield Published
-
iOS vs Windows 10: what's best for your tablet?
The pros and cons of Apple vs Windows tablets, compared
By David Nield Published