As Windows 11 gains traction among users, anticipations about its successor, Windows 12, have started to brew. Rumours are swirling that Windows 12, expected to introduce pioneering features like a floating taskbar and a significant focus on artificial intelligence (AI), is scheduled for a late 2024 launch.
Despite Microsoft’s lack of official confirmation about Windows 12, several signs suggest its development. A video screenshot from the Build 2023 developer conference alluded to a “next generation” of Windows, presumed to hint at Windows 12. Many hope this suggests a distinct version, not merely a cloud-based offshoot of Windows 11.
Sneak Peek into Possible Windows 12 Features
Moreover, Microsoft’s “Next Valley Prototype Design” reference has been interpreted as a codename for the next Windows version. During the 2023 Ignite conference, Windows Latest reported that Microsoft inadvertently offered a sneak peek of an OS version with a floating taskbar, a feature supposedly undergoing internal testing for Windows 12.
Speculations indicate that Microsoft intends to debut Windows 12 in the third quarter of 2024, with a wider release scheduled for 2025. Reports from March suggest that Microsoft is collaborating with Intel and potentially AMD to incorporate cutting-edge AI capabilities into Windows, aligning with the industry’s current direction.
Novel Partitioning Approach in Windows 12
An intriguing aspect of the rumoured Windows 12 is its segmentation into distinct “states” on various storage drive partitions. This approach is purported to streamline Windows 12 management and updates, boost the OS’s security, enable faster updates, and improve user experience.
Interestingly, the chatter about Windows 12 emerges as Windows 11 is gaining momentum among PC users. Recent statistics show Windows 11 has attained a nearly 24% global share, while Windows 10 still dominates with a 71% share. However, Windows 11 is proving to be particularly popular in the gaming community, with over 35% of Steam survey participants using the new OS and Windows 10 usage falling below 60%.
