Rumors of the upcoming release of a major new version of Microsoft’s Windows operating system are increasing. And the company backed up those rumors when it briefly showed a presentation at the Build 2023 conference that read “Next-gen Windows,” which might be a term related to Windows 12. The company is scheduled to come onto the market in autumn 2024 and modernize the operating system with AI. Apparently Microsoft does without major annual updates and now, like before Windows 10, relies on a new main version of Windows every three years.
At the Build 2023 developer conference, Microsoft announced several exciting updates for Windows 11. One of the most intriguing presentations, however, might be the first to confirm during one of the presentations that Microsoft is preparing to launch a next iteration of Windows – possibly Windows 12, which caught the audience’s attention with a screenshot pointing to a session titled “Windows of the next generation”. This session was not discussed, which piqued the curiosity of attendees and tech enthusiasts around the world. Is this really a Windows 12 notice?
This question is currently difficult to answer. In fact, Windows 11 was released on October 5, 2021, more than six years after Windows 10 debuted. Microsoft recently released the first major update to the operating system, Windows 11 version 22H2. However, the next novelty could be Windows 12. According to rumors, the Redmond company is reviewing the release schedule for new major versions of Windows. Microsoft would now consider shorter delays between two major releases. Thus, Windows 12 could arrive in the fall of 2024, three years after the launch of Windows 11.
If the rumor is confirmed, it would mean that Microsoft is forgoing major annual updates and is now opting for a new Windows version every three years (or maybe sooner). Microsoft has denied reports that it’s running on Windows 12, but given that launch is some time away, the company may just be hiding its cards. In the meantime, Windows 11 will continue to receive (sometimes very controversial) updates and occasionally new features, so the operating system will not be considered a premium operating system.
Previously, Microsoft indirectly referred to “Next Valley Prototype Design”, a name for the next Windows generation. Based on the company’s internal testing, Windows 12 will likely feature a different-looking desktop with a unique feature: a floating taskbar-less taskbar. Evidence of this new design would go back to preview builds of Windows 11. And recent preview builds included an option to disable the clock and date in the taskbar, which would match the description of Windows 12 features.
Although this is speculation, the rumor states that Microsoft is optimizing Windows 12 for ARM processors and plans to integrate AI into the new operating system for further improvements. In fact, sources familiar with Microsoft’s plans report that Windows 11 still falls short of the company’s efforts to provide a modular operating system that strips the platform of legacy features in favor of light weight, faster installation of updates, and much tighter security . Windows 12 could be that version and Microsoft would rely heavily on AI to make it happen.
Leaks from Microsoft’s CorePC project show that it will unlock new Windows configurations that evolve based on the computer’s hardware. The CorePC project would use “state separation” and split Windows into multiple partitions, just like iOS and Android. This could make it harder for malware to infect the system while updating faster. (In the current version of Windows, the entire system is installed on a single writable partition. System files, user data, and program files are all stored in one place.)
On a separate platform, an education-focused flavor of Windows like ChromeOS could have a small footprint, running only the Edge browser, web apps, Office, and several Android apps. Conversely, CorePC could also offer full versions that support all current features and capabilities of the modern Windows 11 desktop. It would improve the performance and capabilities of the operating system when paired with specific hardware.
Finally, Microsoft would (unsurprisingly) integrate AI into the heart of the new operating system. In particular, Microsoft would have planned to use AI to analyze screen content and provide appropriate contextual cues. It looks like a system-wide extension of the AI capabilities of future versions of the Office office suite. As for when you can get your hands on it, the Redmond-based company reportedly intends to use CorePC from the next major Windows release (probably Windows 12), which is slated for 2024. But of course the presumed plans of the company could change by then.
Overall, the enthusiasm for Windows 12 seems positive for Microsoft, and some users seem excited to see how it will transform the way they interact with their PCs. Microsoft made many questionable decisions with Windows 11, so there are many lessons learned and areas for improvement. And when it comes to the future of Windows, some users wonder if there’s really any benefit in developing a new operating system every three years. In particular, they fear negative effects on the stability and security of Windows, which could harm not only individuals but also companies.
And you ?
What is your opinion on this topic?
What do you think of the rumors about Windows 12 coming soon?
What features are you hoping for in the next generation of Windows?
Do you advocate releasing a new version of Windows every three years? For what ?
What impact could this release schedule have for consumers and businesses?
See also
Microsoft is reportedly planning major upgrades for Windows 12 that should modernize the operating system with AI and faster updates. The project would be based on Windows 10X
Microsoft is already working on Windows 12, although it’s struggling to get users to adopt Windows 11. Windows 12 could be released next year, in 2024
Microsoft has hidden hints of Cloud PC in Windows 11, hinting at future Windows 12 features
Windows 12: Microsoft is preparing for deeper integration of AI into its operating system. This version could be available next year, in 2024