Microsoft can’t wait to release their new OS.

Since the formal announcement of Microsoft’s new upcoming operating system, Windows 11, the assumption was that it would release either in December, in time for the holiday season, or in November, to land the 11.11 date. As it turns out, while Microsoft is aware of the branding potential in both options, they’ve decided to take a third avenue: getting it out as soon as they’re able to.

Microsoft announced today Windows 11 will be releasing commercially on October 5, 2021. Much like the previous (and rather pushy) upgrade to Windows 10, the upgrade to Windows 11 will be free of charge to download for anyone who’s interested. Copies of Windows 11 will also start coming preloaded on pre-made PCs instead of Windows 10. The upgrade will be available in a phased rollout, starting first with newer devices before moving on to other in-market devices in the following weeks and months.

“Following the tremendous learnings from Windows 10, we want to make sure we’re providing you with the best possible experience,” Aaron Woodman, general manager of Windows marketing at Microsoft, said in the company’s official blog. “We expect all eligible devices to be offered the free upgrade to Windows 11 by mid-2022.”

As perfect as 11.11 *would* be, we just couldn't wait any longer to make #Windows11 available. Get it October 5th, and read all about it now.

— Windows (@Windows) August 31, 2021

Current Windows 10 users can use the Windows Update app to check their computer’s compatibility with Windows 11 once it releases. You can also download the newer PC Health Check app to get a more detailed readout of where your computer may or may not be lacking. If you don’t want to update to Windows 11 yet (and speaking as someone who had a computer bricked by a bad Windows update, I don’t blame you), Microsoft has promised to continue supporting Windows 10 until at least 2025.