Windows 12 What We Know, What We Suspect and What’s Next
As the digital world continues to expand, Microsoft is keeping pace with advancements in its operating system. The forthcoming Windows 12 (suspected link, not yet active) has been causing excitement among tech enthusiasts, with initial details about its projected launch date, enhancements, and features already surfacing. Here’s an exhaustive overview of what we presently know and conjecture about Windows 12.
Projected Launch Date and Codename
Reliable sources indicate that Microsoft aims to roll out Windows 12 in 2024, potentially in the autumn, in line with their internal three-year release cycle. However, bear in mind that Microsoft has not officially confirmed this date and could be subject to alterations.
The code name for the project assumed to be Windows 12 is “Next Valley,” following the “Sun Valley” codename for Windows 11.
Potential GUI Enhancements and Features
Microsoft has yet to make an official announcement regarding any GUI modifications for Windows 12. Nonetheless, a leaked 2022 Microsoft Ignite keynote image hints at several prospective changes. These may involve a floating taskbar, a floating search box at the top of the screen, system icons exhibited on the top-right corner above the desktop wallpaper, and weather information displayed at the top-left corner of the screen.
Anticipated AI Integration
AI integration is another field where innovation is expected. Speculation is that the floating search box may come equipped with AI capabilities. In February 2023, Microsoft unveiled plans to incorporate AI chat features into Bing. Analogous features are also in the Microsoft Edge browser and Microsoft Office pipeline. If these plans come to fruition, we might see a comparable AI chat feature integrated into Windows 12’s search bar, interacting with other Windows desktop applications.
Expected Cost
Given the precedent of Windows updates, it’s anticipated that Windows 12 will be a free download for PCs that are capable of running it. Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 were free upgrades for existing PCs, making it unlikely that Microsoft would start charging for Windows 12 updates.
This is just a glimpse of what’s to come. As additional information comes to light, this post will be updated accordingly.
LTSC Details
Although no specific details about the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) for Windows 12 are available, it’s probable that Microsoft will maintain this option for businesses and other entities that favour or necessitate a more consistent and static operating system for crucial operations. The LTSC versions of Windows only receive security updates and do not include the feature updates and innovations present in the standard versions.
Projected Work-from-Home Enhancements and Features
In view of the rising trend of remote work and Microsoft’s dedication to this shift, it’s expected that Windows 12 will come with features to enhance the work-from-home experience. These may include better integration with Microsoft’s productivity tools, improved virtual collaboration features, and strengthened security measures for remote access.
Anticipated Security Enhancements and Features
While specific details are still unknown, it’s plausible that Windows 12 will introduce advanced security features. Upgrades to Windows Defender, stronger ransomware defences, and new mechanisms to protect user privacy could be among these enhancements.
Please be aware that these are informed speculations based on Microsoft’s previous actions and current trends in operating system development. Conclusive details will be disclosed as we approach the official announcement and release of Windows 12.
Backwards Compatibility
Windows has a reputation for maintaining backward compatibility, allowing users to run older software. While specific information regarding Windows 12’s backwards compatibility hasn’t been released, it’s safe to presume that Microsoft will continue this trend. However, as with any new operating system, some older applications may face compatibility issues.
Potential Integration with Xbox
Given the increasing convergence of PC and Xbox gaming, it’s plausible that Windows 12 will feature better integration with Xbox systems. This could mean more seamless game streaming, integrated Xbox Live features, or the ability to run Xbox games on Windows 12 natively.
Windows Store Improvements
Microsoft has been steadily improving the Windows Store, with each new version of Windows bringing improvements to app discovery, download speeds, and overall user experience. It’s reasonable to anticipate that Windows 12 will continue this trend, bringing further enhancements to the Windows Store.
Cloud Integration
Microsoft has been expanding its cloud services, including Azure and OneDrive. With Windows 12, we might see further integration of these cloud services into the operating system. This could offer users greater flexibility and access to their data from any device.
Please note that these are projections based on Microsoft’s past behaviour and current trends in technology. As we approach the official announcement and release of Windows 12, more concrete details will become available.
Hardware Requirements
While specific hardware requirements for Windows 12 have not been announced, they are expected to be higher than those for Windows 11, as each new version of Windows generally requires more powerful hardware. Users should be prepared for potential upgrades to their hardware to run Windows 12 optimally.
The above information is an accumulation of educated guesses and extrapolations based on Microsoft’s past actions and the current trends in operating system development. As we approach the official announcement and release of Windows 12, more definitive information will become available. But they are likely to be similar to Windows 11.
Possible Hardware requirements
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC).
- Memory: 4 gigabytes (GB) or greater.
- Storage: 64 GB or greater available disk space. NoteThere might be more storage requirements over time for updates and to enable specific features within the OS. For more information, see Windows 11 specifications.
- Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
- Display: High definition (720p) display, 9″ or greater monitor, 8 bits per colour channel.
- Internet connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates, and to download and use some features.
- Windows 11 Home edition requires an internet connection and a Microsoft Account to complete the device setup on first use.
Additional Functionality for Touch Devices
Microsoft has been steadily working to improve the functionality of Windows on touch devices. If this trend continues, we can anticipate that Windows 12 will provide an even more user-friendly experience on tablets and touch-enabled laptops. This could include better handwriting recognition, more intuitive gesture controls, and more efficient power management for these devices.
Augmented and Virtual Reality
Microsoft has shown interest in augmented and virtual reality through its HoloLens project and its work with Windows Mixed Reality. It’s likely that Windows 12 will continue to explore this area, perhaps offering deeper integration with these technologies, making it easier for developers to create immersive experiences and for users to access them.
Sustainability and Power Efficiency
As sustainability becomes an increasingly important concern, we might see Windows 12 taking steps to improve power efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of computing. This could involve improved power management features, more efficient use of hardware resources, and tools to help users track and reduce their energy usage.
Privacy Enhancements
In line with increasing public concern about privacy, it’s likely that Windows 12 will introduce new features and settings to give users more control over their data. This could include more transparent data collection policies, improved tracking protection in Microsoft Edge, and more comprehensive privacy settings.
Improved Accessibility
Microsoft has a commitment to making computing accessible to everyone. We can expect to see continued improvements in this area with Windows 12, such as enhanced screen reader functionality, better speech recognition, and new features designed to make computing more accessible to people with various disabilities.
Again, these are informed predictions based on Microsoft’s past actions and current trends in technology. More definite information will be disclosed as we approach the official announcement and release of Windows 12.
Continuation of Support for Legacy Systems
Microsoft has consistently provided support for legacy systems with its new Windows releases. Although no specific information about this aspect of Windows 12 is available yet, it’s likely that Microsoft will continue this practice. This would mean organizations using older hardware or software could still run Windows 12, albeit with potential limitations.
Enhancements for Developers
Microsoft has traditionally provided robust support for developers, and we can expect this to continue with Windows 12. This could include a more streamlined development environment, improved APIs, and better integration with popular development tools. Additionally, Windows 12 could offer developers new opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and mixed reality.
Integration with Smart Devices
As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to expand, we might see Windows 12 offering more advanced integration with smart devices. This could mean a more seamless connection with smart home devices, wearables, and other IoT devices, making managing and controlling these devices from a Windows 12 PC easier.
Edge Browser Improvements
Microsoft’s Edge browser has seen continuous improvements over the years. With the release of Windows 12, we can expect further enhancements to Edge. This might include improved performance, better tab management, more robust privacy features, and deeper integration with Microsoft’s other services.
Multi-Platform Support
With the increasing popularity of hybrid devices and multi-platform use, Windows 12 might offer better support for these environments. This could include enhanced functionality for dual-screen devices, better synchronization between PC and mobile devices, and more seamless switching between different operating systems.
Remember, these are educated forecasts based on Microsoft’s past actions and the present trends in tech development. More concrete information will be available as we near the official announcement and launch of Windows 12.
