As of recent reports, Windows 12 could be arriving much sooner than initially expected, with rumors suggesting a release as early as June 2024.
This timeline has been supported by multiple industry insiders and a leak from The Commercial Times indicating a mid-2024 release, possibly coinciding with Microsoft Build 2024 for an official announcement.
Release Date Rumors
Although the initial expectation was that Windows 12 would arrive in 2025, Microsoft’s internal development cycle has shifted, leading many to believe it will launch sooner.
The company appears to aim for a three-year cycle between major Windows releases, similar to the gap between Windows 10 and 11.
Additionally, Intel’s executives hinted at a Windows refresh scheduled for 2024, further fueling speculation about Windows 12’s imminent release.
Key Features and AI Enhancements
One of the most exciting aspects of Windows 12 will likely be its deep integration of AI. With Microsoft’s continued investment in OpenAI, AI will play a central role in the operating system, enabling features like Microsoft Copilot, which already exists in Windows 11.
Windows 12 is expected to take AI-driven tasks to the next level by improving productivity through contextual AI suggestions, task automation, and potentially even natural language processing capabilities.
Additionally, there are rumors that Windows 12 could include a feature called Windows Recall, an AI-powered tool that will track user activity across the system, allowing users to search for past tasks, documents, and actions using natural language queries.
User Interface and Design Changes
Windows 12 is expected to introduce some significant design changes, moving away from the familiar Windows 11 interface. A floating taskbar and floating search bar have been spotted in early UI concepts, and Microsoft is reportedly working on a more fluid and responsive desktop experience optimized for both touch and traditional mouse and keyboard inputs.
The design changes seem to draw inspiration from macOS, especially with pinned apps and the system tray possibly becoming part of a floating dock rather than being fixed at the bottom of the screen.
These changes aim to improve the overall user experience, particularly for devices with wide screens and tablets.
System Requirements
Given Windows 12’s anticipated AI capabilities, the new operating system is expected to require more advanced hardware. While Windows 11 requires at least an Intel 8th-generation or AMD Ryzen 2000 series processor, Windows 12 may increase those requirements, particularly focusing on devices that support neural processing units (NPUs) or GPUs capable of handling on-device AI processing.
These features are designed to ensure smooth performance for AI tasks like image generation and intelligent task management, which could be exclusive to newer devices with these hardware specifications.
Pricing and Availability
Much like the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, it’s expected that users with a valid license for Windows 10 or 11 will be able to upgrade to Windows 12 for free.
However, there are rumors that subscription-based models might be introduced for more premium AI-powered features, though no official information has been released regarding this.
For new users, it’s expected that Windows 12 Home will cost around $139 and Windows 12 Pro about $199, following Microsoft’s current pricing strategy for standalone operating system purchases.
Conclusion
Windows 12 promises to be a game-changer with its focus on AI integration, modern design, and potentially more advanced hardware requirements.
The exact features and design changes are still speculative, but from what has been leaked, Windows 12 will likely push boundaries in terms of both functionality and user experience.
With an expected release in 2024, tech enthusiasts and professionals alike are eager to see how Microsoft will continue to innovate with its next-generation operating system.
As we await official announcements, Windows 12’s development will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated tech stories of the coming year.
As we anticipate AI-driven updates in Windows 12, explore how technology is making waves beyond operating systems. Whether it's solving complex in-game challenges like the Chamber of Justice puzzle in Baldur’s Gate 3 or leveraging blockchain for luxury investments in Dreamcars, the tech world is moving fast!
