FAQ - Windows 12: What We Know So Far

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FAQ - Windows 12 Rumors: What We Know So Far
SOURCE: PCGuide - Maria Redillas
https://www.pcguide.com/news/windows-12-rumors/

In the ever-evolving world of technology, the anticipation for the next big thing never ceases. With the release of Windows 11, Microsoft shattered the notion of Windows 10 being the “final version.”  Now, the tech world is abuzz with whispers and conjectures about the next leap forward: Windows 12.  In this article, we’ll explore the “Windows 12 Rumors: What We Know So Far,” sifting through the speculation, leaks, and the few facts we have about this potential game-changer in the world of operating systems.

Windows 12: Release Date Rumors --

Microsoft has yet to confirm the existence of Windows 12 officially. However, various pieces of information lend credibility to the idea that a new Windows version might be on the horizon. Specifically, all the data points out that Windows 12 would be released anytime in 2024.

According to Windowscentral.com, Microsoft is moving towards a new Windows development cycle, with a major release scheduled every three years. Following this cycle, we can expect the next significant Windows release, potentially Windows 12, in 2024.

Windows 12: Features --

Among the most noteworthy aspects is the ongoing effort by Microsoft to modernize the Windows platform through a project codenamed CorePC.

CorePC represents Microsoft’s attempt to create a modular and customizable Windows variant. The intention is to adapt Windows to various form factors, allowing for different levels of feature availability and application compatibility. This move acknowledges the reality that not all Windows PCs require the full breadth of legacy Win32 app support.

The key change with CorePC compared to current Windows versions lies in the concept of “state separation”. Microsoft introduced this concept for the Windows 10X attempts, emphasizing four core innovations: faster updates, state separation, streamlined OS performance, and seamless integration with drivers and apps.

Artificial Experiences --

According to Windowscentral.com Microsoft is also focusing on AI Experiences as a pivotal aspect of Windows development in 2024. Advanced AI features, such as the ability for Windows to analyze displayed content and provide contextual prompts, are currently in the pipeline.

These prompts would enable users to jumpstart projects or applications based on the data being viewed at the moment. Some of these AI features will necessitate dedicated hardware to function, pointing towards the role of specialized AI chips in future Windows PCs.

These ambitious endeavors are all part of Microsoft's groundwork for CorePC. It’s this groundwork that, we believe, will lead to the release of the new Windows, codenamed Hudson Valley. While we can only speculate about the features of Windows 12 at this point, it’s clear that Microsoft is pushing the envelope to ensure its OS stays at the forefront of innovation.

Desktop Updates --

Recently, Microsoft gave a glimpse of this updated desktop interface. Although the presentation was brief, it was enough to pique the curiosity of Windows enthusiasts and prompt extensive online speculation.

The new interface is rumored to bring a range of practical updates and novel features. One of these is a touch-optimized lock and login screen, a much-needed adjustment for Windows users who use touch-enabled devices. Moreover, a new notification center is reportedly in the works.

The revamped notification system could group notifications not only by application, as is currently the case, but also by person. This change would streamline the user experience and make managing notifications more intuitive.

Floating Taskbar and New Features in Windows 12 --

One of the most anticipated new features in Windows 12 is the floating taskbar. This feature, which detaches the taskbar from the bottom of the screen, could offer a more flexible and intuitive user interface. Other new features could include updates to the start menu, improved touch inputs, and enhanced support for digital pens and voice inputs.

Pinned Widgets --

Another exciting feature is the possibility of pinning widgets directly onto the desktop. Allowing users to pin widgets on the desktop could provide a highly personalized and efficient workspace.

One of the more experimental features in the pipeline is a new dynamic wallpaper feature. This tool would use AI to create a parallax effect for 2D wallpapers, lending a subtle depth effect to the user interface. The depth effect would respond to mouse movements or device tilts, enhancing the immersive experience of using the OS.

These planned upgrades and features, if realized, are set to significantly enhance the usability and visual appeal of Windows.

TPM and Secure Boot:  Enhancing Windows 12 Security --

Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and Secure Boot are two significant security features expected to be part of Windows 12. TPM is a dedicated microcontroller designed to secure hardware by integrating cryptographic keys into devices. In Windows 12, TPM could be used to ensure the integrity of security functions and prevent unauthorized access to a computer system.

Secure Boot, on the other hand, is a feature in the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) that helps to prevent malicious software applications and “unauthorized” operating systems from loading during the system start-up process. This feature could be a game-changer in Windows 12, providing an additional layer of security and ensuring that your computer only runs trusted software.

Will Windows 12 Cost Money? --

While Microsoft has been offering major Windows updates for free to existing users, it’s expected that Windows 12 itself will not be entirely free. If you don’t currently have a Windows license, you will likely need to purchase one to use Windows 12. As always, official pricing details will only be revealed once Microsoft makes an official announcement.

Windows 12: Final Thoughts --

As we conclude our exploration into “Windows 12: What we know so far,” it’s evident that the next major version of Windows holds a wealth of exciting potential. The anticipation is particularly high for a significant emphasis on AI capabilities, which could fundamentally transform how we interact with our devices.

Given Microsoft’s recent trajectory, the swirling rumors, and the occasional leak, it seems highly plausible that the tech giant is diligently working on the next iteration of Windows. Speculations about feature updates and minimum system requirements are already making the rounds. However, we await an official confirmation to substantiate these claims.