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Windows is the most popular desktop OS in the world, and Microsoft is preparing to release the next major version, Windows 12. It is expected to become available in 2025, following the interim update of Windows 11 24H2 scheduled for late 2024. Let’s examine what is known and what can be expected from Windows 12 Pro at this point.
Anticipated Release Timeline for Windows 12 Pro
According to preliminary data, the release of Windows 12 Pro will occur between July and October 2025. Microsoft traditionally releases major Windows versions in the fall, typically in September or October. Before this, in late 2024, the interim update Windows 11 24H2 is expected to launch, bringing some innovations such as HDR support for desktop backgrounds, Wi-Fi 7, and enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities.
It’s worth noting that initially, Windows 12 was expected to release as early as 2024. Such assumptions were based on statements from Intel and Qualcomm representatives about a planned “Windows update” in 2024. However, after the announcement of Windows 11 24H2, it became clear that the next major OS version would come later.
Interestingly, almost all significant Windows updates, except for Vista, were released in the fall. This may be a sort of “lucky time” for Microsoft.
Artificial Intelligence Integration as a Key Aspect of Windows 12
Microsoft clearly intends to continue developing the AI capabilities introduced in Windows 11. Features like Copilot, intelligent search, and personalized recommendations will be expanded and improved. It is expected that AI will make interaction with the OS more personalized and efficient.
The AI assistant Copilot, which can perform various tasks from information search to text generation, already appeared in the Windows 11 23H2 update. In Windows 12, its capabilities are likely to expand significantly. It’s possible that Copilot will learn to control certain OS functions through voice commands.
Search in Windows 11 has also improved, now it can search for information not only on the computer but also in Microsoft 365 online services. Probably, in Windows 12, these capabilities will become even broader and more convenient.
Another interesting AI feature already being tested in Windows 11 is file and folder recommendations in File Explorer. AI analyzes user behavior and offers what might be needed at the moment. In Windows 12, this feature will surely become smarter and more accurate.
There may be an intelligent virtual assistant that anticipates user needs and provides useful advice. However, Microsoft should be careful not to repeat past mistakes, the AI assistant should not be intrusive and annoying.
Some of Microsoft’s AI initiatives have already drawn criticism. For example, the idea of automatic screen capture for Copilot analysis was met with caution due to data privacy concerns. So Windows 12 developers will have to find a balance between convenience and confidentiality.
Related: Operating Systems vs Processor
Changes in the Interface and Appearance of Windows 12
Although there is no reliable information about the scale of interface changes compared to Windows 11, there are some assumptions about a possible redesign:
- “Floating” toolbars at the top of the screen;
- Search bar in the style of mobile OS;
- System function icons moved to the upper-right corner.
These changes were noticed in one of the preliminary Windows builds demonstrated by Microsoft at the Ignite conference in 2023. However, it’s unclear how much such a redesign could change the familiar Windows interface.
There are also concerns about the possible return of advertising to the Start menu, as recently happened in one of the Windows 11 updates. Microsoft should carefully weigh all the pros and cons of such a decision.
Another potential innovation is support for animated desktop wallpapers. This feature has long been available in operating systems from Apple as well as in some Linux distributions. It’s quite possible that Microsoft will also decide to add this “visual candy” to Windows 12.
Expected System Requirements for Windows 12 Pro
Although the exact system requirements for Windows 12 Pro are unknown, it can be assumed that they will be comparable to the requirements for Windows 11, but with an emphasis on 64-bit processors. Probably, for a comfortable operation, you will need:
- Processor with a clock speed of 1 GHz or higher, with 2 or more cores, 64-bit.
- Minimum 4–8 GB of RAM.
- SSD with a capacity of 64 GB or more.
- Support for TPM 2.0 and UEFI with the Secure Boot function.
- A graphics card with DirectX 12 support.
Due to the wider application of AI functions, the requirements for the graphics subsystem may be higher than in Windows 11. Some AI-based functions may require special processors; neural processing units (NPUs), which are already included in the latest CPUs and GPUs from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm.
At the same time, Microsoft is unlikely to overstate system requirements, as happened with Windows 11. After a wave of criticism, the company had to soften some requirements, for example, for TPM and Secure Boot. Probably, in the case of Windows 12, Microsoft will be more flexible and try to cover as large an audience as possible.
Various Editions of Windows 12
As with previous versions of Windows, several editions of Windows 12 are expected to be released; at least Home for mass users and Pro for professionals and advanced users. For Windows 11 users, the update will likely be free.
Conclusion
Windows 12 promises to be the next big step in the evolution of the most popular desktop OS. Microsoft clearly intends to continue introducing AI technologies to improve the user experience as well as enhance performance, security, and compatibility.
However, it’s too early to draw conclusions; we need to wait for official announcements and the first preview versions of Windows 12 to assess real changes and improvements. We will keep an eye on the news!
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