When Will Windows 12 Be Released?
Microsoft has not officially announced Windows 12 release date, but according to industry gossips it may launch at the end of 2025. With a possible public launch in early to mid 2026.
Some experts believe it may release in 2027 is possible if Microsoft delays development for AI integration and hardware optimization.
Windows 12 Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Expected Release | Late 2025 (Gossips) |
| Main Focus | AI first design |
| Core Architecture | Modular CorePC |
| Potential Cost | TBD – could include subscription options |
| Minimum RAM | 8 GB (Leaks) |
| Processor Requirement | NPU (Neural Processing Unit) recommended |
Expected Features of Windows 12
Microsoft is expected to make AI the centerpiece of Windows 12, building on the Copilot integration in Windows 11.
- Copilot Everywhere: AI assistant embedded into every app and system function.
- Smart Recall Search: Quickly find past activities, files, and conversations using AI memory.
- Dynamic Wallpapers: On the Spot animated wallpapers that adjust to time of day.
- Direct Storage and DirectX 13: Faster game loading and better graphics performance.
- NPU Acceleration: Hardware based AI processing for faster, local AI tasks.
- Core PC Modular Design: Lite versions of Windows for specific devices.
Leaks System Requirements
These are unconfirmed but expected based on hardware trends and AI features.
| Component | Minimum (Gossips) | Recommended for AI Features |
| Processor | 1 GHz, 2 cores | NPU-enabled CPU |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB | SSD 256 GB+ |
| GPU | DirectX 12 compatible | DirectX 13 capable |
| Internet | Required for setup | High-speed recommended |
Windows 12 V/S Windows 11 – Key Differences
| Feature | Windows 11 | Windows 12 (Leaks) |
| AI Integration | Copilot in some apps | System wide AI Copilot |
| Search | Bing/Start menu search | Smart Recall AI search |
| Architecture | Monolithic | Modular CorePC |
| Graphics API | DirectX 12 | DirectX 13 |
| Release Year | 2021 | 2025/2026 (rumored) |
New Path and Cost
- Upgrade from Windows 11: Microsoft is likely to offer free upgrades for eligible Windows 11 devices in the first year.
- Subscription Model: Some features may be part of a Microsoft 365 subscription.
- OEM Pre installs: Latest laptops and desktops released after launch will likely come with Windows 12 pre installed.
(FAQs)
Will Windows 12 be free?
Likely free for Windows 11 users during the first year of release, similar to past upgrades.
Will my PC support Windows 12?
If your PC meets or exceeds Windows 11’s requirements, it will likely run Windows 12, though AI features may require an NPU.
Is Windows 12 confirmed by Microsoft?
Not officially. All current details are based on leaks and industry reports.
Final Thoughts
Windows 12 promises a more AI Driven, customizable, and faster experience, but until Microsoft makes an official announcement, all details remain speculative.
If you’re planning to upgrade, focus on AI Ready hardware to make the most of the new features.
