Windows 12 is anticipated to be released as soon as the end of 2024. Windows Central has claimed to have sources which state that Microsoft is changing to a three-year cycle period for a major release of Windows. But it is more than speculation. The apparent codename for Windows 12 as of right now is “Hudson Valley” As you may know, Microsoft’s codenames for new projects often are locations of mountains or valleys. The codenames for Windows XP and Windows 7 stem from mountains in British Columbia. Hudson Valley is a region in New York state that follows the Hudson River from Westchester County to Albany. Having a codename for Windows 12 is a signal that the operating system is under development. This article will cover possible features, changes to Windows, what we’ve seen so far, Microsoft’s prior release schedule for Windows, and what I would like to see in Windows 12.
“Seems Too Soon.”
Previously, Microsoft was on a three-year schedule for releasing major versions of Windows. However, this changed for Windows 10. This led people to misinterpret release dates. As Microsoft finally had consistency from the release of Windows 7 to Windows 10. Although Microsoft had intentions of releasing Windows Vista by late 2003, it was released in 2007 due to their ambitious plans. The release dates are as planned, unless there are unexpected changes or a reset to the operating system’s development. While this is the plan, this does not mean that updates will not be released in between. As annual feature updates are planned. Historically, Microsoft has released two major updates per year: one in the first half and another in the second half. These updates are commonly referred to as the “Annual” and “six-month” updates, respectively. Annual updates typically arrive in the spring, while the six-month update is usually released in the fall. This schedule allows Microsoft to deliver new features, security enhancements, and performance improvements to Windows users on a regular basis. Over the years, this approach has been well-received by users, as it ensures that their operating system stays up to date with the latest advancements, bug fixes, and security patches. The update schedule also enables Microsoft to respond to user feedback and adapt to the evolving technology landscape, making Windows a more robust and reliable operating system. While there was not a feature update in early 2023, it’ll be seen later this year. Respectively titled, “23H2.” Considering annual major feature updates, Microsoft is supposedly going to release even smaller feature updates every three months. This was seen with the release of the weather Widget on Windows 11.
“What About Windows 11!”
Understandably, many people who are aware or have heard about this have not even switched to Windows 11. According to Steam’s Hardware & Software Survey, Windows 10 had a 59.4% market share whereas Windows 11 had a 35.7%. While I conducted a survey for a week, it did not receive sufficient numbers to be considered as an overall end-user experience. But by far, many people still use Windows 10. This is possibly due to the system requirements for Windows 11, or Microsoft releasing the operating system too early. This could be seen in the beginning of its lifespan. Those who migrated from Windows 10 to Windows 11 reported many bugs and security vulnerabilities. Luckily, the majority of Windows 11’s issues have been patched. However, first impressions contribute to reputation. Examples of this can be found with Windows Vista, and even Windows 10. Luckily, Windows 10 is now suitable for use rather than Vista. But many did not appreciate the features Vista introduced such as User Account Control. But if you’ve seen the meme where every other version of Windows is good and every other version is bad, the next version might be true according to that pattern.
Possible Changes.
It is speculated by some that Windows 12 will be a major overhaul as far as features are concerned. Many are supposing that the operating system is going to be built from the ground up compared to Windows 11, which is considered to be a re-branded version of Windows 10. The reason that this is a possibility is because of reports of “CorePC.” CorePC is a compact and powerful computing device that combines the functionality of a traditional desktop computer into a smaller form factor. It is designed to deliver high performance and versatility while occupying minimal space. CorePC typically features a range of connectivity options, including USB ports, HDMI outputs, and wireless connectivity, enabling users to connect peripherals and accessories easily. It offers the flexibility to run various operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, or Chrome OS, making it suitable for different user preferences and work environments. This would allow Microsoft to adapt the Windows installation to almost any device. As mentioned earlier, you could have a Chromebook-style device that does not have many resources and requires a lightweight operating system. This would be a very lightweight version of Windows 12 whereas a standard PC would have more capabilities.
As far as user-facing features, it is safe to say that Microsoft will be implementing a lot of AI elements. Microsoft has been partnering with OpenAI and has been integrating artificial intelligence into Bing and the Bing Assistant. Additionally in recent dev-versions of Windows 11, there is a “Windows Copilot.” Which has been announced some time ago and can be found in the Windows Insider Program. From my experience, this feature seems like the Bing Assistant in Windows. At the moment, I’m not overly impressed. However, you can ask the assistant to perform some commands. Such as turning on the Dark Mode. However, it does not recognize that it is in a Windows desktop when asked to perform specific commands such as opening certain programs. Standard responses typically read “I can only chat with you inside this chat box.” Granted, this is still in beta. So, it’ll hopefully be improved as time passes. Depending on the technology of AI progresses, it could be possible to integrate AI into the operating system. This would mean that requests would not have to be sent to the internet in order to receive a response. Although I would be surprised if this were done. Because in order to access AI, an internet connection is required. Furthermore, Microsoft would want more control over its AI model for “Safety’s sake.”
What I Want to See!
With all that has been covered, what I would like to see as far as AI is privacy integrated into its model. As many people find artificial intelligence uncomfortable and controversial. Should AI become integrated into the operating system, it would be nice to see a more “hands-on” experience. Where it is able to navigate through settings itself. While you can simply turn on the Dark Mode in the Settings yourself, I would imagine that people would appreciate the feature. As well as opening programs such as the Command Prompt, Notepad, Word, etc. Another example of an integration would be if you’re searching for a program that performs a certain task, but you don’t remember the name of the program, you could ask your assistant. Or even change an arbitrary setting or even a setting within a program. Such as your preferences on an internet browser. As well as integrating more accessibility features for the blind and visually impaired. While Microsoft does have a screen reader called Narrator and a standard magnifier, they do not function properly. Features like this would be very convenient to Microsoft’s end users. At some point, I’m sure we will see that.
What We Have Seen so Far.
We have seen a redesigned user interface. Microsoft showed it in a presentation where the only noticeable change was a floating Task Bar which was not pinned to the bottom. Along with some icons that can barely be seen on the upper right and left of the screen. Closer to what you would see with macOS. As well as a different Settings icon. Your battery can be seen on the upper right rather than the bottom right where you would typically see it on the Task Bar. I’m unsure of all of the noticeable changes that’ll be seen in Windows 12. But time will tell. We may also get Widgets. While Widgets were added in Windows 11, they are only located on the Task Bar. I’d much rather see Widgets on the Desktop that you can pin and interact with. If you would like to see Microsoft’s presentation, you can click here. While Windows 12’s features are simply just speculation, we will more than likely hear more about it in the future. Considering that many people still use Windows 10, it is understandably Microsoft’s most suitable operating system compared to 8 and 11. I will continue to conduct research on Windows 12 and post whatever news I can find to my Facebook Page and possibly my TikTok.
