It looks like Microsoft is preparing to introduce a new version of its flagship operating system - potentially called Windows 12. Teasers and leaks suggest that the main goal of this update will be the integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features, significantly expanding user capabilities and interaction with the system.
Windows 12 - what's new?
Windows 12 - what's new?
Microsoft has already accustomed users to the fact that new editions of its flagship operating system bring many changes. They do not always satisfy users, which leads to lively discussions online. Here are the new features that will likely appear in Windows 12!
AI integration
AI integration
The main theme of the entire Windows 12 is to be the integration of advanced artificial intelligence features. Microsoft is working on improving Copilot, which will work in the background, improving search, context understanding, and faster app launching.
AI-powered search
Users will be able to use natural language to search for files, settings, and apps. Don't remember the file name? That's no longer a problem! Copilot will search all apps based on the entered description and find lost files.
AI desktop background
The new wallpaper feature will use AI to analyze the image and detect its layers in order to generate a parallax effect that reacts to the mouse cursor or gyroscope in portable devices.
AI super resolution
Windows will also receive a new "Super Resolution" feature to upscale games and video using AI through the system's NPU processor.
Improved live captions
Microsoft is also preparing an update to the "Live Captions" feature, which will translate captions into multiple languages in real time, both from video audio and voice conversations.
New visual features
The development of Windows 12 also includes significant visual changes. Experimental changes may include refreshing the taskbar experience. An example could be placing some elements, such as the system clock, at the top of the screen.
Windows 12 - system requirements
Windows 12 - system requirements
Windows 12 is expected to increase hardware requirements, potentially requiring 8 GB of RAM instead of 4 GB. The new version will still require a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) chip and, optionally, a Pluton security chip and neural processing units (NPU) for some advanced AI features.
Windows 12 - release date
Windows 12 - release date
Windows 12 is expected to be released in fall 2024, around September and October. This version will be delivered to device manufacturers as early as June 2024 in order to prepare devices for the new Snapdragon X Elite processors. Windows 12 is to be available as a free update for devices with Windows 11 or Windows 10 already installed.
Although we are still waiting for an official announcement from Microsoft, much indicates that Windows 12 will bring significant innovations and changes, especially in terms of AI integration.
Summary
Windows 12 is set to focus on advanced AI integration, offering, among other things, natural-language search, wallpapers with a parallax effect, and game upscaling through the NPU. Hardware requirements will increase to a minimum of 8 GB RAM, and the premiere is planned for fall 2024. The system is to be a free update for Windows 10 and 11 users. According to leaks, Microsoft will make the version available to manufacturers as early as June 2024 in order to keep up with the new Snapdragon X Elite processors.