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Summary
Windows 12 will likely be released in late 2024.
Codenamed “Next Valley,” Microsoft has already revealed a prototype desktop redesign.
Microsoft is reportedly working on a new version of Windows to replaceWindows 11.
Microsoft
Here’s everything we know.
Windows 12 Release Date: When Will It Be?
Microsoft is planning on releasing Windows 12 in 2024, according to credible reports.
Microsoft
Likewise, the operating system that started asWindows 10Xfor dual-screen devices evolved into Windows 11.
According to these internal Microsoft sources, Microsoft is now targeting a three-year release cycle for Windows releases.
What Will Be New in Windows 12?
As of February 2023, Microsoft hasn’t yet officially announced Windows 12 or its release date.
But Microsoft did leak a new Windows desktop interface that the company could be testing for Windows 12.
The leak comes from theMicrosoft Ignite keynoteheld on October 12, 2022.
Microsoft momentarily shows an image of Microsoft Teams running on a Windows 11-style desktop.
We also expect that floating search box may include AI features.
On February 7, 2023, Microsoft announcedplans to integrate AI chat features into Bing.
This sidebar will let you use AI chat to interact with your current web page.
Microsoft Office is also getting AI features.
Microsoft will surely announce Windows 12 and its features as the company gets closer to releasing it.
Will Windows 12 Be Free?
How Much Will It Cost?
We expect that Windows 12 will be a free download if your PC can run it.
Here’s why:
Windows 10 and Windows 11 were both free updates for existing PCs.
We would be surprised if Microsoft began charging for Windows 12 upgrades.
If you’re building your own PC, you’re able to buy Windows separately.
Microsoft sellsWindows 11 Home for $139.99andWindows 11 Pro for $199.99.
We expect Microsoft will sell Windows 12 for a similar price.
The same may be true for Windows 12.
What Will Windows 12’s Hardware Requirements Be?
But what about currentWindows 11 PCs?
How Long Will Windows 11 Be Supported?
We expect Windows 11 will be supported with security updates until at least late 2028.
Here’s why:
Windows 10 was released on July 29, 2015.
Windows 11 was released on October 5, 2021, more than six years later.
At any rate, it’s much too early to worry about Windows 11’s support cycle.
Microsoft will update the official pageWindows 11 Lifecycle pagewhen an end-of-support date is available.
We’ll be warned years in advance.
For example, the page says Windows 11 22H2 will be supported until October 8, 2024.
How Long Will Windows 11 Get New Features?
Windows 11 got its first major update—version 22H2—in fall 2022.
