KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Windows 12 is expected to be released in Fall 2025, based on Microsoft’s typical release cycles.
- AI capabilities are anticipated to be a major focus in Windows 12, building on the AI features introduced in the Windows 11 update.
- Windows 12 may reintroduce ads in the Start menu, following the recent introduction (and subsequent removal) of ads in a Windows 11 update.
- Hardware requirements for Windows 12 are likely to be more demanding than previous versions, requiring faster CPUs, more RAM, solid-state drives, and graphics cards compatible with DirectX 12 or later for a better run.
- While Microsoft may offer Windows 12 as a free upgrade for existing Windows 11 or 10 users, new purchases are likely to follow a pricing structure similar to Windows 11.
Microsoft is deep into Windows 12 development, with the next version of the most popular desktop OS in the world expected in 2025.
We have one more revision of Windows 11 to come first — Windows 11 24H2, which will bring HDR background support, Wi-Fi 7, and artificial intelligence features — but once that arrives before the end of 2024, Windows 12 is the next operating system to keep your eyes on.
In this article, we’ll explore everything we know so far about Windows 12, from its expected release date and pricing to its rumored features and system requirements.
When is Windows 12 Being Released?
Windows 12 is expected to be released in July to October 2025.
Original estimates considered 2024 to be the year until Microsoft announced Windows 11 24H2. Based on the company’s previous release playbook, a release date in Q3 aligns with Microsoft’s traditional launch windows.
Other than Windows Vista, every major OS launch has happened in October, or occasionally September. Perhaps Fall season is a lucky charm for Microsoft?
New Windows 12 Features
Microsoft has never been shy about its intention to bring artificial intelligence capabilities to its Windows OS. So, we don’t expect this to change in Windows 12.
Building on the foundation laid by Windows 11’s 23H2 update, which introduced Microsoft Copilot to Windows, and going deeper with the upcoming 24H2, Windows 12 is likely to have been built with AI right at the center.
Copilot has already demonstrated its ability to provide a more personalized and efficient experience, and future updates could further enhance its ability to control and interact with the PC. However, it’s not been a smooth run, with Microsoft’s idea to automatically screenshot users’ machines getting instant pushback.
Windows 11 24H2, coming soon, also includes a better version of HDR support, additional compression tools in Windows Explorer, and eagerly anticipated Wi-Fi 7 support, so we can expect these features to be baked in to Windows 12.
One potential area of improvement is the expansion of AI-powered search capabilities, similar to those seen in Windows 11’s Taskbar, where users can easily use the search icon to look up content across Microsoft 365.
Additionally, the Recommended section in File Explorer, which suggests files and folders based on user behavior, could be further refined and expanded with better AI algorithms.
What Will Windows 12 Look Like?
While there is not much to go on yet, back in 2022 Windows Central reporter Zac Bowden was shown a UI design prototype at a Microsoft event, which showed floating toolbars at the top of Windows, including a weather icon, a search bar, mobile-like system items in the top right.
This was two years ago, and was an “accidental flash” of what might be a prototype, but it may be an early glance of Microsoft’s plans. Browden recreated what he saw in the article above.
Will Ads Return to Windows 12 Start Menu?
In April 2024, Microsoft released a Windows 11 update that introduced ads in the Start menu. While they’ve removed this feature, there are still concerns that it might become a permanent addition in future versions, including Windows 12.
The ads, displayed in the Recommended section, promote Microsoft Store apps from a select group of developers, aiming to facilitate app discovery. While this update may enhance user experience, it remains to be seen whether Start menu ads will become a standard feature in future Windows versions.
What Hardware Will I Need to Run Windows 12?
Expected Specs: 1GHz+, 64-bit Only? Otherwise, Largely Similar to Windows 11
While Microsoft has not revealed its Windows 12 system requirements, we can make some educated guesses based on current trends and technological advancements.
Firstly, due to AI-laden features expected to come with the new Windows, it’s likely that users will require nothing less than 1 gigahertz (GHz), a 64-bit processor, with 2 or more cores, a minimum of 4-8 GB of RAM, and 16 GB of storage or more to run Windows 12.
In terms of storage, a solid-state drive (SSD) will be the preferred choice, given its faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). A minimum of 256 GB of storage will likely be required, with 512 GB or more recommended for users with large file collections.
Graphics requirements will likely be more demanding, with a minimum graphics card that is compatible with DirectX 12 (DX12) or later.
We expect Windows 12 specs to be largely similar to Windows 11 specs, although perhaps making a 64-bit processor mandatory.
Windows 12 vs Windows 11: Minimum Specs
| Hardware Requirement | Windows 11 | Windows 12 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores | 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores (64-bit compatible) |
| RAM | 4 GB or more | 4 GB or more |
| Storage | 64 GB or larger | 64 GB or larger |
| System firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot capable | UEFI, Secure Boot capable |
| TPM | TPM version 2.0 | TPM version 2.0 |
| Graphics card | DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver | DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver |
Will There Be Different Versions of Windows 12?
Similar to its predecessors, Windows 12 is likely to come in Home and Pro versions, perhaps with different aliases. This will cater to the preferences of end consumers and high-end users. So, it should not come as a surprise if Microsoft decides to version Windows 12 according to this classification.
We can also expect varying levels of features, security, and support in the versions as we currently have in Windows 11.
Windows 12 Price
Free Upgrade & Premium Options?
With many software releases following a subscription model, it’s not out of place to wonder if Microsoft would come up with a Windows 12 subscription model rather than its current license purchase model.
It’s safe to assume that Microsoft will offer Windows 12 as a free optional upgrade for Windows 11 users, but likely a paid upgrade for Windows 10.
For those who wish to purchase a standalone copy of Windows 12, Microsoft will likely follow the pricing pattern on its Windows 11.
If this becomes the case, we can expect Windows 12 Home to cost more than the $139 currently charged for Windows 11 Home. Windows 12 Pro could cost around $199.99 or more.
This pricing structure is consistent with Microsoft’s previous releases, and it’s likely that Windows 12 will follow suit.
The Bottom Line
If you’re a Windows user or enthusiast, the possibility of having more AI functions to tinker with in a new Windows could be exciting. While details are scarce on Microsoft’s plans for a future Windows operating system iteration, what we do know is that the tech giant consistently strives to innovate and improve user experience with each new version and we look forward to an official Windows 12 preview.
And with AI lurking around every software, there is no reason not to expect more of it when the official Windows 12 release hits the news.
But beyond AI, Microsoft will likely aim to optimize performance, improve security features, and ensure seamless compatibility with apps as they forge ahead with the future of their flagship product.
And no, we have no suggestions about what the Windows 12 logo looks like yet.
