Instead of creating a new version of Windows, why didn't Microsoft just upgrade Windows 10 with features from Windows 11?

 There are a number of reasons why Microsoft chose to release Windows 11 as a stand-alone operating system rather than adding its features to Windows 10:

1) Technical considerations: Windows 11 offers a number of noteworthy enhancements and modifications, such as a completely revamped user interface, improved gaming capabilities, and improved hardware compatibility. It may have been technically difficult to implement these changes in Windows 10 through updates, and there may have been problems with compatibility with current hardware and software setups.

2) Marketing Plan: Microsoft hopes to create buzz and draw interest from consumers and companies by introducing Windows 11 as a new operating system. A new release incentivizes users to upgrade and fosters a sense of novelty, which may result in increased revenue from partnerships and new license sales.

3) Product Differentiation: In contrast to Windows 10, Windows 11 is a different product. Microsoft can market it as a premium or sophisticated option by releasing it as a distinct operating system and aiming to attract particular user segments that would be interested in the new features and improvements.

4) Microsoft provides regular upgrades and support periods for its Windows operating systems as part of its maintenance lifecycle. Microsoft can now clearly define the support lifetime for Windows 11 by releasing it as a separate operating system. This allows consumers to receive security patches and upgrades for an extended period of time, and it also allows them to sunset support for older versions of Windows, such as Windows 10, at a later time.

5) Extension of Ecosystem: Microsoft may be able to enhance its market position, provide new services, and broaden its ecosystem by releasing a new operating system. It's possible that Windows 11 will have integration capabilities, such tighter connections to Microsoft 365, Azure, and other cloud services, that support Microsoft's larger ecosystem goal.

Therefore, even while it may have been technically possible to update Windows 10 with Windows 11 capabilities, Microsoft's choice to release Windows 11 as a separate operating system most certainly has its roots in a mix of technical, strategic, and marketing factors.