Windows 11 is set to launch on October 5 and Microsoft is now preparing the testing channels for the next version of the operating system codenamed “Nickel”.

As you’re probably aware, the Windows Insider program has different requirements from Windows 11 itself. If you have unsupported hardware and it’s part of the Windows Insider program, you can download and test Windows 11 preview builds without running into compatibility issues.

However, there’s a catch – if your device doesn’t support Windows 11 and it is in the Dev, you’ll only get preview updates until the official release. As you can see in the screenshot below, Microsoft is now booting unsupported Windows 11 PCs out of the Windows Insider Program.

If your CPU isn’t supported officially, you’ll need to roll back to Windows 10 to keep getting regular updates. Microsoft is enforcing this policy to address the potential compatibility issues and it’s similar to the strategy that the company followed for Windows Phones not compatible with Windows 10 Mobile.

“Your PC does not meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11. Your device is not eligible to join the Windows Insider Program on Windows 11. Please install Windows 10 to participate in the Windows Insider in the Release Preview Channel,” the error message reads.

It’s not yet clear if these unsupported devices in the Windows Insider program are allowed to download the monthly cumulative updates.

Windows 11 requirements will block preview builds on unsupported PCs

Microsoft recently published the final list of CPUs supported for Windows 11 and you may be disappointed if you were hoping to see the tech giant change its stance on the controversial hardware requirements.

Windows 11 requirements have been confusing from the beginning and Microsoft has struggled to explain the strict hardware requirements. Taking to the official blog post, Microsoft officials blamed issues and bugs with the unsupported hardware for restricting Windows 11 to newer hardware.

As you’re probably aware, Windows 11 requires 8th generation or Ryzen 2000 processors and Microsoft won’t be making any major change to the official system requirements. The company stands firm on its decision and Windows 11 will launch in early October for supported hardware only.

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