Windows 12 Release Date: Everything You Need to Know in 2024
Windows 11 has been around for more than two years now, with several updates already released. We saw Windows 11 version 22H2 in 2022, followed by multiple Moment updates throughout 2023, leading to version 23H2, which is now widely available. Despite these updates keeping Windows 11 fresh, there’s anticipation for the Windows 12 release date, which is expected to launch in 2024.
Microsoft has not officially announced the Windows 12 release date, and reports, about it have been downplayed. According to statements, Microsoft is focused on updates and smaller feature enhancements for Windows 11. However, there are indications of a Windows update coming this year, possibly around September.
Windows 12 Release Date – Expected
The Windows 12 release date is expected in the first half of 2024, around September. This timeline aligns with updates for Windows 11. Despite reports suggesting a shift to a three-year development cycle, the next version is expected to continue with updates.
There is some uncertainty due to changes in the Windows platform. Codenamed Hudson Valley Windows 12 will be built on a platform release called Germanium, which marks the major update since the launch of Windows 11. It is expected that Germanium will be completed by April with features rolling out to devices starting in June. The majority of Windows 12 features are likely to be launched in September.
The delay in release primarily aims to ensure compatibility with Arm-based devices like those powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors. Microsoft intends for these devices to hit the market promptly; hence they will initially ship with core features. Receive the Hudson Valley update later in the year, alongside devices.
Will users need to pay for Windows 12?
People often question whether Windows 12 will be available as an upgrade. The likelihood is that you won’t have to make any payment for the upgrade, considering that Microsoft has been providing updates at no cost to Windows users for quite some time now. However, Windows 12 itself may not be free, so you’ll still need to purchase one if you don’t have a Windows license.
There have been rumours about a subscription service for Windows 12, but Microsoft has dismissed them. You won’t need to pay a recurring fee to use Windows 12. Nonetheless, you’ll still need to buy a license if you’re building a custom PC and don’t already have a valid Windows 10 or 11 license. Compatibility with your PC may influence your decision to spend money, but that’s a separate consideration.
FAQs
Is Windows 12 coming in 2024?
There is no official confirmation about the release date of Windows 12. Microsoft typically releases a new major Windows version every few years, with the latest being Windows 11 in 2021. It’s unlikely Windows 12 will be released in 2024.
What can we expect from Windows 12?
Here are some rumored features and areas of focus for Windows 12:
Stronger AI Integration: AI might play a bigger role in system optimization, personalization, and potentially even user interaction with a virtual assistant-like interface.
Improved User Interface: A revamped interface with a focus on simplicity, customization, and touch-friendly features for tablets and foldable devices is a possibility.
Focus on Security and Privacy: Enhanced security features and more granular user control over data privacy are likely priorities.
Better App Compatibility: Smoother integration between traditional desktop apps and modern Windows Store apps is an ongoing challenge that might be addressed.
Cloud Integration: Seamless cloud storage and integration with Microsoft 365 services might be a focus.
What new features can we expect in Windows 12?
While unconfirmed, potential features include enhanced AI integration, improved gaming capabilities, and a refined user interface.
Windows 11 is a dud like Windows 8. If Microsoft doesn’t fix the lag in the context menu with W11 and adding Recent Folders/Recent Items in the Quick Access menu accessible through all applications, I’m sticking with W10. I downgraded from W11.
In any event, everyone should disable Copilot in W12 like many did with Cortana. The last thing we need is a woke Ai abruptly terminating the session because your confronted it when providing false information especially from ads and unreliable web based sources.