Microsoft is preparing another major update to its flagship operating system. Although the official release date is not yet known, the first information about potential new features and improvements in Windows 12 is already appearing online. See what changes are coming and how to prepare for the update.
Windows 12 - when will it debut?
So when will Windows 12 be released? Microsoft has yet to reveal an official release date for its system, but the company has returned to its three-year release cycle. Windows 11 came out in October 2021, so a very likely release date for "twelve" seemed to be the second half of 2024.
However, Microsoft has officially confirmed that for the time being it prefers to focus on the development of the current system. For this reason, we will probably have to wait for Windows 12 until 2025.
Integration with cloud and online services
One of the main directions for Windows 12 is expected to be even tighter integration with Microsoft's cloud services such as OneDrive and Microsoft 365. The Redmond giant wants to expand its ecosystem, in which users can access their files, settings and apps across devices.
When you log into Windows 12 with your Microsoft account, all the data and tools you need are supposed to be available at your fingertips - regardless of which computer or tablet you use. This is a big convenience if you work on multiple hardware.
Artificial intelligence in your computer
Windows 12 is also expected to harness the potential of artificial intelligence to streamline the system and make everyday tasks easier. One idea is to introduce an intelligent assistant to help with file searching or writing emails.
There are even reports circulating that Microsoft wants to replace the Start button with an interface for Copilot, a proprietary Microsoft assistant based on OpenAI's GPT-4 technology. Will this happen? We'll see.
Refreshed interface and new features
With the release of Windows 12 you can also expect a refresh of the user interface. Microsoft will certainly want to introduce solutions that will give users the feeling that they are dealing with something more modern.
In addition to the aforementioned changes to the Start menu, there are likely to be new versions of system applications.
Microsoft is also expanding from system to system the virtual desktops feature, previously known from macOS. If you haven't used this solution so far, the release of Win 12 may be a good opportunity to try it out.
How to prepare for the upgrade?
Although the release is still some time away, it is already worth thinking about preparations for the upgrade.
- First of all, make sure that your computer will meet the hardware requirements of the new system. We don't yet know the official specifications, but it's likely that Windows 12 will require newer components than "eleven." If your computer is already several years old, it's worth considering upgrading or replacing your hardware.
- Before upgrading, it's also a good idea to clean up your files and programs - remove unused applications and move important documents to the cloud or an external drive.
The update process itself should be similar to previous versions of the system - through the Windows Update settings. However, to be safe, make a backup of your most important data beforehand.
Windows 12 - a new era of computing is coming?
Windows 12 promises to be a major update, with many new features and improvements. From deeper integration with the cloud to the use of artificial intelligence to a refreshed interface, the changes are expected to be many.
The release probably won't take place until 2025, but it's worth keeping an eye on for information on Windows 12 and think about preparing for the upgrade. That way you'll smoothly "switch" to the new system as soon as it debuts on the market.
FAQ - frequently asked questions
- Will Windows 12 have to be paid for?
For now, it's unclear whether Windows 12 will be a free update. But it is possible that Microsoft will follow in the footsteps of previous versions of the system and make it available for free to users of legitimate Windows 10 or 11. - Can my current computer handle Windows 12?
The exact hardware requirements of Windows 12 are not yet known. It is likely that they will be higher than those of Windows 11. If your computer is several years old, check whether it meets the current requirements of "eleven" and think about upgrading if necessary. - When exactly will Windows 12 be released?
Although the official release date is unknown, we can probably expect the new Windows in 2025. Unless Microsoft's plans change for some reason. - Is it better to hold off on buying a new computer until Windows 12 is released?
It depends on your needs and the condition of your current hardware. If your computer is still running well, there is no need to wait. However, if you are planning a replacement in the near future anyway, it is worth waiting for more information about Windows 12 and possibly buying a computer with the new system.