Everything we know about the next version of Windows: what's new, what's released, and requirements

If you're someone who's always up to date with the latest technological developments and are interested in knowing what Microsoft is preparing with its next generation of Windows, this article is for you. Let's dive into all the confirmed information, the most reliable rumors, and the most recent. Clues left by insiders about Windows 12, the future operating system that promises to give a lot to talk about.

The Expectations surrounding a new version of Windows are always high. And no wonder: after a lukewarm reception from Windows 11 And with the calendar marking the imminent end of support for Windows 10, millions of users are eager to know what changes, improvements, and requirements await us. Here's the most complete and up-to-date compilation so you don't miss a single detail.

Names, context, and the transition from Windows 11

The Windows release cycle seems to have returned to its classic triennial rhythm.. Following the release of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft chose to maintain a policy of important annual updates (such as versions 22H2, 23H2, or 24H2) rather than quickly jumping to a new generation. This has led to some confusion regarding the arrival of Windows 12, as there was speculation for months that it would be released in 2024, but it has since been postponed.

Windows 11 24H2 was the latest major update, focused on polishing features and reinforcing the role of artificial intelligence.. This update, which arrived earlier than expected for what was supposed to be Windows 12, has served as a bridge to test many of the technologies that Microsoft wants to incorporate more ambitiously in the next major version. In fact, the company has made it clear that The real leap will come with the new generation, whose provisional name is Windows 12, although they could surprise us with some last-minute name changes (such as "Next Valley").

The final name It could still vary, as internal documents and leaks also talk about Windows 11 25H2. However, most leaks and analysts agree that Microsoft will offer a generational leap with a system that will change the numbering and bring profound changes, especially related to artificial intelligence and the modularity of the system.

Possible Windows 12 release date: The most likely window

The million dollar question: When will the new version be officially available? Although Microsoft has not yet made any firm announcements, there is a General consensus among insiders and specialized media places the launch in October 2025This strategy would allow the company to synchronize the arrival of Windows 12 with the end of support for Windows 10, which ends precisely that month, pushing millions of users to upgrade.

This calendar is not a coincidence. Microsoft wants an orderly transition without the setbacks that marked the transition from Windows 8 to 10 or from 10 to 11.Therefore, the new version will be released just as Windows 10 users stop receiving security updates, making the migration easier and less traumatic, especially for businesses and institutions.

In addition, it is expected that before the official launch, Microsoft makes a public beta available through the Insider channel, as usual. In fact, insiders like XenoPanther have already detected very advanced internal builds (27547 and later), which confirms that development is underway and that the most inquisitive users will soon be able to try out all the new features firsthand.

 

General news: artificial intelligence as the main protagonist

The new generation of Windows will undoubtedly be the one that truly embraces artificial intelligence (AI).. While Windows 11 has already introduced features such as Copilot or the integration of Bing with AI, in Windows 12 all of this will be considerably enhanced. The goal is making AI the core engine of the operating system, to offer a much more customizable, proactive and tailored experience for each user.

Among the most anticipated improvements are:

• Copilot evolved: A much more advanced AI-based assistant, capable of understanding the context of applications and tasks, summarizing documents, changing computer settings with commands simple and generate new ideas instantly.
• smart automation: The system could automatically adapt to different usage scenarios, adjusting the device's behavior for productivity, gaming, video editing, and other common uses.
• Improvements in search and organizationNew AI algorithms will make file and content searches faster and more accurate, and automatic organization options will be introduced in File Explorer, with suggestions generated by machine learning.
• Deep integration across the entire interfaceFrom the Start menu to the Notification Center to the taskbar, AI-powered features will be present in every corner of the operating system.

This commitment to AI will also be clearly reflected in the minimum requirements., because taking advantage of the new features will require modern hardware, especially processors with NPUs (neural processing units) and fast SSD storage.

Design, interface and modularity of the new Windows

Another of the big changes expected with the arrival of the next version of Windows is a profound overhaul of the design and user interfaceMicrosoft aims to offer a more streamlined, intuitive, and coherent experience, taking cues from systems like macOS while maintaining the essence of Windows.

Among the most notable changes, we can mention:

• floating taskbarThe taskbar is expected to move from its usual location attached to the bottom edge and become a floating element, with faster access to functions and more natural search integration.
• Refreshed icons and menus: There will be new icon collections, with more modern and adaptive styles, as well as improved and simplified context menus.
• Notification Center and lock screen redesignedNotifications will be more visual, configurable, and less intrusive. Additionally, the lock screen will offer more customizable information and smart shortcuts.
• CoreOS, the leap to modularity: Microsoft is betting on a modular internal architecture, under the name CoreOS or Core PC, which will allow the operating system to be divided into independent partitions (for example, one for the system, another for user data, and another for critical read-only files), thereby improving security, stability, and the ease of restoring the system in the event of serious failures.
• Adaptive and universal design: The system would automatically adjust to different form factors, screen sizes and devices, whether it's a classic laptop, a 2-in-1 convertible, a tablet or even consoles. portable and compact PCs.

Compatibility, integration, and support for modern hardware

Microsoft wants to make sure that The next version of Windows will be compatible with most modern devices, including not only those based on x86 architecture (Intel and AMD), but also making a strong commitment to ARM. This represents an ambitious commitment to the universality: a single system for classic PCs, ultralight laptops, tablets, handheld consoles and other emerging devices.

Among the keys to this compatibility, the following stand out:

• Better support for ARM processorsFollowing in the footsteps of Apple and its proprietary chips, Windows 12 will be much more efficient with ARM architectures, allowing for lighter, more autonomous computers.
• AI hardware support: Copilot+ PCs and other models with a dedicated NPU will be able to take full advantage of the new intelligent features.
• Integration with mobile devices: Substantial improvements in the telephone connection system Android e iOS, allowing for more fluid interaction, drag-and-drop file sharing, and using the tablet as a second screen.
• Universal Updates: Windows Update It will operate as a single system for all editions and architectures, avoiding the fragmentation that hampered older versions.

Minimum requirements and technical innovations

The arrival of each generation of Windows is always accompanied by debates about the minimum requirements, and Windows 12 will be no exception. Leaks so far suggest higher requirements than Windows 11, though not as radical as the jump from Windows 10 to 11.

Requirements that will likely be required to install Windows 12:

• 64-bit (ARM/x86) processor with at least 1 GHz with multiple cores (according to some sources, 4 or more cores to enjoy certain AI functions).
• 8 GB minimum RAM for standard versions (the most basic editions could start at 4 GB, but to take advantage of all the AI ​​and new features, 8 GB will be the suggested standard).
• SSD storage, likely starting at 100GB for base installations, although some rumors suggest up to 256GB is recommended if you want to take advantage of cloud integration and CloudPC.
• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled.
• Module TPM 2.0 activated (this requirement remains controversial, but Microsoft has maintained it as essential since Windows 11).
• Screen of at least 9 inches and minimum resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels (some leaks raise the standard to 1080p).
• Graphics card compatible with DirectX 12.
• Stable internet connection and Microsoft account for most advanced features.
• Optional NPU for the most advanced artificial intelligence features.

These requirements make sense given the new AI engines and the need for a modern experience. However, you can rest assured that your computer meets the Windows 11 requirements, although for certain new features, you may need to upgrade memory or install an SSD.

What the Windows 12 upgrade process and pricing will be like

One of the biggest questions users always have is whether the upgrade to the new version will be free or will require a fee. According to available information, Microsoft will continue to allow free upgrades for users with an active Windows 11 license., in line with the strategy of recent generations. Simply install the update through Windows Update to obtain a valid and renewed license.

However, there are rumors about possible Subscription models in business environments, similar to Windows 365 Cloud PC. For now, this doesn't seem to affect home users. We'll have to wait for the final version to confirm this, but it's almost certain that if you have Windows 10 or 11 activated, upgrading to the new version will be just a click away.

The update process will be very similar to previous versions:

• You'll receive a notification in Windows Update when the update is ready for your device.
• You can update automatically or perform a clean install from external media if you prefer for a better experience. Boot.
• The rollout will be gradual and controlled to minimize issues, especially on computers with less common hardware.

Microsoft recommends updating to improve security and access the latest features, although the update will not be mandatory for the first few months.

Major innovations in features and applications

In addition to the major changes in interface, AI and architecture, the new version of Windows will bring with it a battery of improvements in applications and integrated toolsBased on the evidence, we can highlight:

• Photo Gallery unified: Thanks to the integration of the cloud and the Photos app, you'll be able to view images stored on your PC, in the cloud, and on connected mobile devices, all in one place.
• File Explorer revamped: With smart recommendation features, read-only sections, and improved tabs to organize your daily work.
• Copilot ImprovementsThe AI ​​assistant will be more capable, able to organize tasks, configure equipment, and assist both novice and advanced users with voice and text commands.
• Multimedia integration and communicationThere's speculation about the arrival of a new messaging app that will unify Teams and Skype, offering a more fluid experience for work, study, and leisure.
• More options in privacy and security: Microsoft will strengthen biometric authentication, advanced protection against malware in the cloud and stricter management of permissions and personal data.
• Backup and restore facilities: Windows will now have a built-in solution for backing up to the cloud, recovering files, and restoring settings in the event of a failure.
• Improved accessory compatibilityFrom Bluetooth LE audio systems to accessibility input devices, including new features for touchscreens and voice recognition.

What happens if your equipment is old: the technological gap

The arrival of Windows 12 may pose a problem for users with older computers. The jump in minimum requirements will leave out many computers that still work perfectly with Windows 10 or even 11Microsoft's tendency is to prioritize security, efficiency, and support for modern hardware, so only the latest PCs will be able to access all features. Those left behind will be able to continue using their current versions, albeit without official support or access to the latest updates.

The technology gap is expected to widen, forcing those who want to take advantage of AI and improved design to upgrade, if not their entire equipment, then at least key components such as memory and storage.

Rumors, leaks and what remains to be confirmed

As with every major Microsoft release, There are many rumors and leaks about features yet to be confirmed.Among the most striking we find:

• New licensing system: a subscription edition (like Office 365) for businesses, although it will not be available to home users for now.
• More exclusive features for Copilot+ hardware: Certain tools would only work on computers with dedicated NPU.
• Even more customizable interface: with intelligent light, dark, and high contrast modes, which would be activated depending on the time of day or the environment.
• Universal apps and improved store: They will attempt to merge the Microsoft Store with AI apps from different developers, allowing third-party AI to be downloaded for specific tasks.

However, many of these new features will depend on the final development phase and could be delayed depending on Microsoft's release schedule and the feedback they receive from Insider channels in the coming months.

Is it worth preparing for the jump now?

The answer to whether it's worth upgrading depends on your priorities and your computer's hardware. If you have a modern computer and are looking to take full advantage of the potential of artificial intelligence, the cloud, and new user experiences, the jump to Windows 12 will be especially attractive.For those with older devices, it may be advisable to wait and see if the stability and fluidity of the current version suits your needs.

Microsoft will continue to support Windows 11 for a while, but will gradually push users to upgrade, both for security reasons and to access the latest apps and services.

After analyzing all the leaks, official statements, and consistent rumors, it's clear that the next version of Windows is going to be one of the biggest revolutions since Windows 10. Artificial intelligence, modular design, and universal compatibility with modern hardware will be the pillars on which Microsoft will build the Windows of the future. If you want to be prepared and not miss any news, stay tuned to our site, as we'll be updating all the information as official details are revealed and the release date approaches.