Windows 12 FAQ: Anticipating a 2024 Release and More

Windows 12 FAQ: Anticipating a 2024 Release and More

Despite Microsoft’s silence, there’s a buzz of rumors and conjectures about Windows 12 next installment, and I’ve compiled them in this FAQ to prepare you for what’s coming.

The “Windows as a Service” concept was short-lived. With Windows 11’s 2021 debut, Microsoft returned to a traditional release cycle, hinting at a major Windows update every three years. Up next is Windows 12, expected in 2024.

While Microsoft keeps its cards close to its chest regarding Windows 12, the rumor mill, fueled by partner leaks, suggests a significant 2024 release, three years post-Windows 11.

While Microsoft keeps its cards close to its chest regarding Windows 12, the rumor mill, fueled by partner leaks, suggests a significant 2024 release, three years post-Windows 11.

What to Expect from Windows 12?

Drawing from over 30 years of OS expertise, I predict a marketing push, possibly with new TV ads, highlighting fresh features in familiar hardware from key partners like HP, Lenovo, and Dell.

Will Windows 12 Feature AI?

It’s likely. With AI integration becoming a Microsoft staple, expect Windows 12 to embrace this trend. The Copilot feature, already previewed in Windows 11 and 10, will probably see enhanced capabilities.

Whether these AI features will resonate with users and drive shareholder value remains to be seen.

We can anticipate Windows 12-compatible PCs to sport specialized AI hardware, such as custom neural processing units, following Microsoft’s inclusion of these in its Arm-based Surface Pro and Azure-focused processors. This technology might also find its way into the Surface PC line up in the Windows 12 phase.

It’s likely. With AI integration becoming a Microsoft staple, expect Windows 12 to embrace this trend.

Will Windows 12 Have Different Hardware Requirements?

Windows 11 introduced a significant shift in hardware requirements, excluding older systems. It’s likely that Windows 12 will maintain these requirements, ensuring compatibility with PCs capable of running Windows 11. However, expect additional requirements for specific AI features like speech and image processing in Windows 12.

Microsoft’s Increased Focus on Arm-based PCs

The upcoming generation of Windows PCs is set to significantly improve in performance, battery life, and manageability. This development poses a potential challenge to Intel. Qualcomm’s delayed System on Chips (SoCs) are anticipated to be ready for Windows 12, potentially matching Apple’s devices in performance and battery life, especially at lower price points. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Elite X chip, announced in October and expected by mid-2024, is projected to rival Intel’s top laptop CPUs with much lower power consumption. AMD and Nvidia are also developing Arm-based designs, expected in 2025.

Expected User Experience (UX) Changes in Windows 12

Major UX overhauls in Windows 12 are not anticipated. Instead, refinements and enhancements to the existing Windows 11 UX features are expected, like the ability to reposition the taskbar. Predictions include a floating search bar and a taskbar redesign, potentially making the interface more reminiscent of a Mac. These changes, spotted in a Windows 12 design prototype, may be offered as user-configurable options.

The upcoming generation of Windows PCs is set to significantly improve in performance, battery life, and manageability.

Compatibility of Old Windows Apps with Windows 12

Windows 12 is expected to continue supporting backward compatibility with older apps, with enhanced security measures. Microsoft’s focus will likely include virtualizing core Windows functions for increased security, and on Arm-based PCs, possibly running legacy Win32 apps in sandboxed virtual sessions.

Potential Name for the Next Windows Version:The trend since Windows 7 suggests that the next version will likely continue with a numerical naming convention. However, there’s a slim chance Microsoft might opt for a unique name, potentially incorporating ‘Copilot.’

Release Timeline for Windows 12

The public release of Windows 12 is expected between late July and late October, following Microsoft’s traditional release schedule for new Windows versions. Insider builds are likely to be available a few months prior to the final release.

Expansion of Android App Support in Windows 12

The possibility of Windows 12 expanding support for Android apps, particularly access to the Google Play Store, is intriguing but uncertain due to the complex relationship between Google and Microsoft.

Cost of Windows 12

Most users traditionally acquire Windows through a new PC purchase rather than direct payment to Microsoft. This trend is unlikely to change with Windows 12, and a price increase in the current economic climate is not anticipated.

Links

• Windows 12 FAQ: Yes, it’s coming in 2024 (and more surprising predictions) – ZDNET
• Sell pre-owned Microsoft device online – iGotOffer
• Everything About Microsoft’s Products – The complete guide to all Microsoft consumer electronic products, including technical specifications, identifiers and other valuable information.

How Windows 12 Will Change Everything (Leaked Features) [Video]

Video uploaded by Tech Pulse Pro on November 22, 2023.