Microsoft is quietly getting ready for the next big update to its operating system in the constantly changing world of technology. Windows 11 has had its time in the spotlight, but now, the spotlight is shifting towards Windows 12. In this guide, we’ll explain Windows 12, discussing what to expect and the features users want.
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What’s Brewing with Windows 12?
Windows 12, the hypothetical successor to Windows 11, is already creating ripples of excitement in the tech world. While Microsoft remains tight-lipped, insiders and experts are buzzing with speculations about the release date, features, and more. Let’s explore Windows 12, starting with what we know and moving on to what we hope for.
Windows 12: The Release Date
The burning question on everyone’s mind is when Windows 12 will grace our screens. Reports suggest a 2024 launch, approximately three years after the debut of Windows 11.
Though this timeline might seem plausible, Microsoft has refrained from confirming or denying these speculations. The world of tech knows twists and turns, so it doesn’t etch the release date in stone. For now, we wait with bated breath.
Windows 12: The Free Upgrade Dilemma
One aspect that users are eager to know about is whether Windows 12 will be a free upgrade. Fortunately, Microsoft has been consistent in its approach of offering major Windows updates for free to existing users. Windows 12 isn’t free unless you already have a Windows license. So, the key lies in your existing Windows setup.
Windows 12: The Forced Upgrade Conundrum
Commonly, Windows users express concern about upgrades forcing them. The good news is that Microsoft has significantly eased its approach in this regard. Windows 11 remains an optional update for Windows 10 users.
Users can choose when to transition, keeping control in their hands. Mandatory upgrades typically apply when the current version nears the end of its support period.
For instance, Microsoft will support the original release of Windows 11 for 24 months for Home and Pro editions. While smaller feature updates are not mandatory, security updates ensure the system’s health. For example, Microsoft continues to support Windows 10, demonstrating that users won’t face immediate shifts.
Windows 12: The Compatibility Quandary
Windows 11 made waves by raising the minimum system requirements. Users are curious if Windows 12 will be like the next version, possibly not supporting older PCs. While it’s too early to provide specific details, it’s reasonable to assume that some PCs may face compatibility challenges.
Windows 11, for instance, requires processors released from around 2018 onward, indicating the need for more recent hardware. The RAM and storage requirements also set a baseline. Users often find ways to use unsupported PCs, so most modern laptops will probably support Windows 12.
Windows 12: The Enigmatic Features
The crux of Windows 12’s appeal lies in its potential features. Though Microsoft hasn’t officially unveiled the update, leaks and reports offer glimpses of what might be in store. A prototype of Windows 12, revealed inadvertently during a Microsoft event, provides tantalizing insights. Some anticipated changes include:
- New Desktop UI: Shows floating taskbar and icons at top of screen, like macOS, could change user experience.
- Optimized Lock Screen and Login UI: An interface designed for touch devices, promising greater efficiency and accessibility.
- Revamped Notification Center: The ability to group notifications by contact, rather than solely by app, enhancing organization and ease of use.
- Desktop Widgets: The flexibility to pin widgets directly to the desktop, reducing the need for a separate widgets panel.
- Users can create animated wallpapers with a parallax effect, making their desktop background dynamic and personalized.
- In Windows 12, CorePC enhances the design by making it more modular. This allows users to enable or disable specific parts according to the requirements of different devices and forms. This could usher in tailored user experiences for diverse hardware.
- State separation could revolutionize Windows updates by enabling independent updates of core partitions, resulting in faster updates. This promises faster updates with minimal user intervention and enhanced system reliability.
- AI Integration: Microsoft is actively exploring the incorporation of more AI features. Windows 12 might offer content recognition and object recognition capabilities, enhancing user interactions and productivity.
- Windows 12 may stop supporting 32-bit Arm apps, like other Arm-focused platforms.
This preview of Windows 12 sparks creativity and prepares for an interactive, user-focused operating system.
Our Wishlist for Windows 12
As Windows 12 takes shape, there are several features and improvements that users eagerly anticipate. Let’s delve into the user wishlist, which could make Windows 12 an even more powerful and user-friendly operating system.
1. Seamless Updates
The current update process often necessitates downloads, installations, and reboots, which can be time-consuming. Windows 12 could draw inspiration from ChromeOS and Android, offering updates that happen seamlessly in the background, minimizing user interruptions. A quick and efficient update process could elevate the user experience.
2. Enhanced Widgets
Widgets offer valuable at-a-glance information, but their potential remains untapped. Windows 12 could introduce more customization options for the Widgets board, allowing users to tailor it to their specific needs. Additionally, a user-friendly RSS feed reader integrated into the Widgets board could provide a more informative and engaging experience. Users could curate their news sources and stay updated effortlessly.
3. Improved Start Menu Customization
Flexibility is key when it comes to the Start menu. Users want to change the size and look of the Start menu to fit their most used icons and apps. Offering granular control over the number of pinned and recommended items empowers users to tailor the Start menu to their preferences. It’s all about enhancing the user’s journey.
4. Live Wallpapers
Live wallpapers have been a popular feature on various operating systems. Windows 12 could bring this feature into the spotlight by offering native support for animated wallpapers. Users could easily set their own GIFs or videos as backgrounds, adding a dynamic and personalized touch to their desktops.
5. Unified Settings
Streamlining the transition from Control Panel to the Settings app is a long-standing user request. Windows 12 could prioritize this unification, ensuring that settings and configurations feel consistent across the entire operating system. A cohesive user interface creates a more user-friendly environment and reduces confusion.
6. Editable Snap Layouts
Snap Layouts in Windows 11 introduced an excellent way to manage multiple open apps, but users want more flexibility. Windows 12 could build upon this feature by making Snap Layouts fully editable. Users can easily change apps within the layout and dragging windows to the screen edges ensures the desired layout. A seamless multitasking experience is the goal.
7. Simplified App Uninstallation
The current app uninstallation process varies depending on whether an app is from the Microsoft Store or not. Windows 12 could streamline this process, offering a universal and user-friendly way to uninstall apps. A consistent approach to app management enhances the overall user experience.
8. Universal Tabs
Previously, we tested the concept of “Sets” for Windows 10, and users appreciated the ability to group related apps within tabs. Microsoft may bring back the “Sets” feature in Windows 12, which lets users easily organize their work using tabs. Tabs offer a structured and efficient approach to managing multiple tasks.
The Exciting Journey Ahead
The tech community eagerly awaits the unveiling of Windows 12, buzzing with expectations and desires. Windows 12 holds the promise of a more user-centric, efficient, and dynamic operating system. Whether it’s the introduction of seamless updates, enhanced widgets, or personalized live wallpapers, the potential for innovation is boundless. The user wishlist reflects the collective vision of a Windows operating system that caters to individual needs and preferences.
In the ever-changing landscape of technology, Windows 12 represents a new chapter in the evolution of Microsoft’s operating systems. Windows 12 is coming soon with exciting updates. Users and fans can expect a future version that is even more user-friendly and dynamic.
As we get ready for Windows 12, remember that you have the power to shape the future of this operating system. Your feedback, your needs, and your preferences can play a pivotal role in making Windows 12 a reality that surpasses expectations. Stay tuned for updates and get ready for a remarkable journey into the next era of Windows.
