Discover the latest updates on Windows 12 release dates, including news, leaks, and pricing information. Stay informed and be the first to know about Windows 12!
In Short
- Some reported Windows 12 features include a new interactive shell with a floating taskbar and a slew of AI capabilities.
- Upgrades from Windows 11 to Windows 12 should ideally be free, but we can’t say much for the time being because Microsoft has postponed the release of Windows 12.
Expected Release Date for Windows 12
Panos Panay quit Microsoft in September 2023. As a result, the Redmond behemoth’s new and highly adventurous offerings have ceased to emerge. New Surface form factors and a three-year renewal schedule for the Windows platform have all been scrapped as Microsoft shifts its focus to incorporating AI into many of its products.
In a recent Windows Insider blog post, Microsoft put all conjecture about the delivery of Windows 12 to rest, stating that Windows 11 24H2 will be this year’s annual update. The blog states, “This indicates that Windows 11, version 24H2, will be this year’s yearly feature upgrade. As previously stated, Windows 11 will have an annual feature update cycle, with releases in the second half of the calendar year.
So Windows 12 isn’t coming this year, and it appears like we won’t see a new version of Windows until 2025. Microsoft does not want to further fracture the Windows platform, as Windows 10 continues to have the most users (67%) and Windows 11 has only managed to migrate approximately 28% of customers after three years of release.
Furthermore, Microsoft is actively concentrating on delivering AI features and experiences on Windows 11. It plans to introduce Windows 11 version 24H2 with AI-powered features in October 2024.
New Windows 12 Features
AI Could Be the Focus Point for Windows 12
Microsoft has never been bashful about its desire to include artificial intelligence capabilities into its Windows OS. We do not expect this to change in Windows 12.
Although nothing has been officially announced, it is exciting to ponder the idea of having more AI functions than what we presently have in Windows 11.
Building on the foundation set by Windows 11’s 23H2 update, which introduced Microsoft Copilot to the operating system, Windows 12 has the potential to push AI capabilities even further. Copilot has already proven its capacity to give a more personalized and efficient experience, and future updates may improve its ability to operate and interact with the PC.
One possible area for development is the introduction of AI-powered search capabilities, such as those found in Windows 11’s Taskbar, where users can easily utilize the search button to look up information across Microsoft 365.
Furthermore, the Recommended area in File Explorer, which proposes files and directories based on user activity, may be improved and expanded with better AI algorithms.
Another possibility is the integration of AI to suggest user actions using a virtual assistant that can anticipate user needs and provide recommendations accordingly.
While these ideas are purely speculative and we are yet to see an official Windows 12 concept out there, it’s clear that AI will influence a lot of changes.
Will ads return to the Windows 12 Start Menu?
Microsoft just launched a Windows 11 upgrade that includes advertisements in the Start menu. While they have removed this feature, there are still concerns that it may become permanent in future versions, including Windows 12.
Advertisements in the Recommended area promote Microsoft Store apps from a select set of developers, with the goal of facilitating app discovery. While this update may improve the user experience, it’s unclear whether Start menu advertisements will become a typical feature in future Windows editions.
What hardware will I need to run Windows 12?
While Microsoft has not revealed any information on its Windows 12 system requirements, we can make educated guesses based on current trends and technical breakthroughs.
To begin with, due to the AI-laden features planned with the next Windows, users would most likely need at least 1 gigahertz (GHz) of CPU performance, a 64-bit processor with two or more cores, and a minimum of 4–8 GB of RAM with 16 GB or more to run Windows 12.
In terms of storage, a solid-state drive (SSD) will be the favored option due to its higher read and write capabilities than traditional hard disk drives. A minimum of 256 GB of storage is likely required, with 512 GB or more recommended for individuals with significant file collections.
Graphics requirements will likely be more demanding, with a minimum graphics card that is compatible with DirectX 12 (DX12) or later.
Will there be different versions of Windows 12?
Windows 12, like its predecessors, is likely to be available in both Home and Pro versions, possibly under various names. This is to accommodate end-user and high-end user preferences. So it should come as no surprise if Microsoft decides to release Windows 12 based on this classification.
We can also expect varied levels of features, security, and support in the versions that currently exist in Windows 11. As with past Windows versions, Microsoft will announce specific editions and their features closer to the release date.
Windows 12 Price
Free Upgrade & Premium Options?
With many software versions following a subscription model, it’s understandable to question if Microsoft may adopt a Windows 12 subscription model rather than its current license purchase strategy.
There is no evidence to support this, so it is safe to presume that Microsoft will offer Windows 12 as a free optional upgrade, as it did with Windows 11. This means that consumers with a valid Windows 11 or Windows 10 license may be eligible to update to the most recent operating system for free.
However, if you want to buy a standalone copy of Windows 12, Microsoft will most likely maintain the pricing pattern it uses for Windows 11.
If this is the case, Windows 12 Home will likely cost more than the $139 now charged for Windows 11 Home. Windows 12 Pro may cost roughly $199.99 or more. This pricing structure is consistent with prior Microsoft releases, and Windows 12 is likely to follow suit.
The Final Word
If you use or are interested in Windows, the prospect of having additional AI features to play with in a future Windows version may be intriguing. Although there are few specifics available about Microsoft’s plans for a future version of the Windows operating system, we do know that the tech giant constantly aims to innovate and enhance the user experience with every new release, so we’re excited for the official Windows 12 preview.
Furthermore, since AI is included in every piece of software, there’s no need to be surprised if the official Windows 12 release is announced.
But as they move forward with the future of their main product, Microsoft is probably going to focus on optimizing performance, enhancing security measures, and guaranteeing seamless app compatibility, in addition to AI.
Furthermore, we do not currently have any recommendations for the design of the Windows 12 logo.