Windows 10 is reaching its end-of-life (EoL) phase fairly soon, and while the market share of Windows 11 is finally catching up to the previous OS, even among gamers, there is still a significant number of people who are hesitant regarding the upgrade to Microsoft's latest OS for various reasons. In our Windows 11 review from back in 2021, we emphasized how the operating system prioritizes aesthetics over functionality, and I recently wrote about how even after the passage of four years, Microsoft has been unable to convince me to use Windows 11 as my sole daily driver.
Well, it turns out that some people aren't particularly pleased with the current design language of Windows 11 either. Popular concept artist "AR 4789" has now reimagined Windows as "Windows Classic Remastered" (Windows CR in its abbreviated form) on their YouTube channel. For those who need a refresher, this is the same prolific artist who previously created concept videos for Windows 12, Windows 11X, and Windows 11 Mobile.
As the name suggests, Windows Classic Remastered is a combination of various operating systems, including Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 10, and even Windows 11, among others. The concept video takes viewers from the setup process to the full-blown desktop OS, highlighting a redesigned Start menu, File Explorer, the iconic 3D pipes screensaver, widgets, and more. For good measure, we also have the trusty Clippy as our AI assistant, rather than Copilot. You can check out Windows CR in its full glory below:
As you may ascertain from the name of this concept, OS and the video above, the idea is to combine modern functionality with classic aesthetics. Of course, it's not a perfect design, as you'll see typos across various UI components, and I'm personally not a fan of the slow animations of elements like File Explorer either. The classic widgets would be an acquired taste, too, especially in today's world.
That said, it's certainly an interesting concept, and one that can trigger nostalgia and get your imagination racing about the potential upcoming designs of Windows. It may not be to everyone's liking, but there's no harm in having some fun with design.
What do you think of the Windows Classic Remastered concept? Is it something that fascinates you? Let us know in the comments section below!
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