Microsoft Windows 12: Release Date, Rumors, Leaks and More
- Is Windows 12 bringing a whole new look?
- Get ready for a new “floating” taskbar.
- AI might run the show in Windows 12 – but will you need a subscription to unlock it?
Despite earlier rumors that Windows 12 could launch by 2024, Microsoft's recent announcements suggest otherwise. Industry experts to project that a Windows 12 release might now align with the end-of-life for Windows 10, possibly in September or October 2025.
According to Microsoft’s recent update schedule, it’s clear that Windows 11 remains the current priority. However, with Windows 11’s market share only at about 33% (Windows 10 still leads at 63%), another major OS version might further fragment the market—an issue Microsoft may seek to avoid.
Photo via Zac Bowden // A leaked concept of Microsoft's upcoming major Windows UI refresh, Windows 12, showcasing a redesigned taskbar among other design changes.
The Future of Windows AI
Windows 12 is rumored to integrate even deeper artificial intelligence features, building upon what’s already been introduced with Windows Copilot in the latest updates. Microsoft’s AI efforts appear to be leading toward a more proactive, context-aware assistant that could make smarter predictions based on user behavior. As tech analyst Zac Bowden from Windows Central observed, Microsoft is focused on making Copilot more than just a smart assistant.
The design is representative of the goals Microsoft hopes to achieve with the next version of Windows.— Zac Bowden
Expectations are high for Windows Recall, a feature intended to log user activities for natural-language searchability, although its launch was delayed due to privacy concerns. Security experts worry that while data stays local, Recall’s ability to search past activity might feel intrusive to some.
Leaked UI Concepts: A Glimpse into Windows 12's Look and Feel
A concept UI unveiled at Microsoft Ignite in 2023 showcased a bold shift for Windows’ desktop design. The concept featured:
- Floating Taskbar and Search Panel – Positioned independently at the top and bottom of the screen, reminiscent of macOS.
- Weather and System Icons – Now in the top corners of the screen.
Photo via Microsoft // A sneak peak of Windows 12's design revealed at Microsoft Ignite in 2023.
These changes aim to make the Windows interface more intuitive for touchscreens without sacrificing usability for traditional setups. Whether these design shifts will appear in Windows 12 is uncertain, especially after former Windows head Panos Panay’s departure.
Subscription Model Rumors and AI Hardware
References to "subscription edition" and "subscription type" in recent builds have fueled speculation that Windows 12 might adopt a subscription model for advanced AI features. According to Windows Central, the model could follow Microsoft’s existing Windows 365 subscription model for business users. Bowden notes that while a subscription for regular users is “purely speculation,” such a move would likely be met with significant backlash.
New AI hardware requirements are also a hot topic. Windows 12 will likely demand PCs equipped with NPUs (Neural Processing Units) to handle complex AI operations directly on the device. Chipmakers like Qualcomm and Intel are already preparing processors that feature these NPUs, with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and Intel’s Core Ultra "Lunar Lake" processors expected to significantly enhance the Windows AI experience.
Component-Driven Windows: Towards Modular Updates
The concept of Core OS or CorePC for modular, customizable versions of Windows has been gaining traction. Inspired by Windows X, a lightweight OS concept that Microsoft never fully launched, a modular Windows 12 could allow for smoother updates and enhanced security by tailoring system components to the specific needs of a device. A modular approach could reduce resource usage on devices that don’t need full legacy application support, positioning Windows to compete with streamlined OS options like Google's ChromeOS.
Windows Insider Program: Sneak Peek into Microsoft’s Vision
For those eager to test the latest features, the Windows Insider Program provides early access to experimental updates, from UI changes to new applications like Media Player. This program serves as a proving ground for upcoming changes, including potential features for Windows 12.
Photo via IDG // Another concept image showcasing Microsoft's upcoming Windows 12.
The Canary channel, the most experimental, currently includes enhancements like redesigned Widgets, increased USB 4 support, and a revamped Task Manager. Such additions are incremental but offer insight into the type of functionality Microsoft is testing for broader rollout.
Conclusion: Waiting for Windows 12
As of now, Windows 12 remains unconfirmed. Microsoft’s ongoing focus on Windows 11 updates, particularly with AI, suggests that we may not see a new OS until 2025. However, with continual insider leaks and strong indicators of AI integration, Windows 12’s launch could usher in a transformative period for Microsoft’s flagship product.
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Windows 12 has been released in the name is 11 24h2
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