Microsoft has been caught up in a romance with generative AI. So, it’s no surprise that our attention may have been pulled away from the traditional cycle of its Windows releases.

However, speculations suggest a change to the tech giant’s operating system may be back on track.

After the release of Windows 11 in 2021, rumors have been circulating about Microsoft’s Windows 12 release date. Initially, it seemed like Microsoft was gearing up for a 2024 release, following the same roadmap as Windows 11 with a June announcement and October launch. However, the rumor mill has gone eerily quiet in the first quarter of 2024, leaving us wondering what’s next for the future of Windows.

Despite Microsoft’s tight-lipped approach, Windows 12 leaks suggest that an announcement is looming on the horizon. But since there seems to be a great deal of secrecy tied to official Windows 12 news, we’re left to piece together the clues and speculate about what’s to come.

In this article, we’ll explore everything we know so far about Windows 12 leaks, from its potential release date and pricing to its rumored features and system requirements.

When is Windows 12 Being Released?

Estimated Launch: July-October 2024

The million-dollar question on everyone’s mind is: When is Windows 12 coming out? While Microsoft has remained silent about the release date, rumors and speculation are rife.

Based on the company’s previous release playbook and leaks, we estimate that Windows 12 will launch in the second half of 2024. This would put the release date around July-October 2024, aligning with Microsoft’s traditional launch windows.

Perhaps the most compelling evidence of a 2024 release came from Intel’s chief financial officer, Dave Zinsner, who, in an interview last year, predicted a surge in PC sales driven by the ’arrival of Windows 12 next year.’

New Windows 12 Features

AI Could Be the Focal Point of Windows 12

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.

Although nothing is officially confirmed, it’s exciting to consider the possibility of having more AI features than we currently have in Windows 11.

Building on the foundation of Windows 11’s 23H2 update, which introduced Microsoft Copilot to Windows, Windows 12 could take AI capabilities to new heights. 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.

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.

Search on the taskbar in Windows 11: (Microsoft)

Another possibility is the integration of AI to suggest user actions using a virtual assistant that can anticipate user needs and provide recommendations accordingly. This type of AI, designed to understand user intentions, has the potential to bring out the best of AI-human interaction on Windows PCs.

While these ideas are purely speculative and we are yet to see an official Windows 12 concept out there, it’s clear that AI will influence a lot of changes.

Will Ads Return to Windows 12 Start Menu?

Microsoft recently released a Windows 11 update that introduced ads in the Start menu. While they’ve pulled the plug on 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?

While Microsoft has not said anything about its Windows 12 system requirements, we can make some educated guesses based on the 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) in CPU speed, a 64-bit processor, with 2 or more cores, a minimum of 4-8 GB of RAM with 16 GB 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.

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 be to cater to end consumer and high-end user preferences. So, it should not come as a surprise if Microsoft decides to version Windows 12 following this classification.

We can also expect varying levels of features, security, and support, in the versions as we currently have in Windows 11. As with previous Windows releases, the exact editions and their features will be announced by Microsoft closer to the release date.

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.

There is no evidence alluding to this, so it’s safer to assume that Microsoft will offer Windows 12 as a free optional upgrade, similar to what it did with Windows 11. This means that users with a valid license for Windows 11 or possibly even Windows 10 may be able to upgrade to the latest operating system at no additional cost.

However, 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 is the case, we can expect Windows 12 Home to cost over $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 Windows 12 will likely 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 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.

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Huawei is planning to expand its home-grown operating system, HarmonyOS, to global markets. Currently, Android (One UI) and iOS dominate the global mobile operating system market, while HarmonyOS has gained popularity within China despite being exclusive to that market.

Due to US restrictions, Huawei lost access to key technologies, including Android and semiconductors. In response, the company has been developing its own operating system, HarmonyOS. However, for the global market, Huawei’s devices still ship with EMUI, which is based on Android.

Huawei recognizes that a robust applications ecosystem is a major advantage of Android and iOS. Compared to these two giants, HarmonyOS lacks comprehensive app support, which is a significant barrier to its expansion into global markets. This shortfall could hinder consumer adoption outside of China, where users expect a wide range of applications readily available on their mobile devices.

At Huawei’s 21st Analyst Summit in Shenzhen, the company’s rotating chairman, Erik Xu, outlined their strategy for HarmonyOS. He stated,



HarmonyOS to go Global



Huawei’s Mate 60 Pro has achieved the top-selling status in the Chinese smartphone market, displacing Apple’s iPhone from its leading position. This success has undoubtedly caused some concern for Tim Cook, as Apple has lost its top spot in the world’s largest smartphone market.

Additionally, Huawei has recently introduced its brand-new Pura 70 series flagships. These devices feature advanced technologies and innovative camera systems, which are expected to further boost the phone maker’s growth and competitiveness in the market.

As Huawei flagships continue to gain popularity, the company plans to spend 2024 focusing on enhancing the native app ecosystem for HarmonyOS. The aim is to attract the most popular smartphone apps to its self-developed operating system, making it a more viable alternative to established platforms like Android and iOS. This strategy could help Huawei increase its market share and user base globally.

Erik Xu, a representative from Huawei, expressed the company’s ambitious goal for HarmonyOS, stating, “Once we have these first 5,000 Android apps – and thousands of other apps – up and running on HarmonyOS, we will have a real HarmonyOS: a third mobile operating system for the world.” Xu also mentioned the potential for the platform to expand significantly, claiming that the number of apps on HarmonyOS could eventually reach up to 1 million in the future. This growth would mark a significant step towards establishing HarmonyOS as a major player in the global mobile operating system market.

Conclusion



Huawei’s HarmonyOS is indeed a distinct mobile operating system, separate from Android and iOS, which presents an interesting choice for consumers. If HarmonyOS were to become available globally with proper application support, it would offer a fresh alternative with potential new features and a different user experience.

Whether to switch to a Huawei phone running HarmonyOS would depend on several factors. Key considerations might include the range and quality of available apps, how well the system integrates with other devices and services you use, the overall user experience, and how it compares in terms of privacy and security to existing platforms.

If you are someone who enjoys exploring new technology and values innovation, trying out a Huawei phone with HarmonyOS could be an exciting experience. However, if you rely heavily on specific apps or services that might not be supported, or if you prefer the familiarity and established ecosystem of Android or iOS, you might decide to stick with what you know. Ultimately, the decision would hinge on how well HarmonyOS meets your personal or professional needs compared to the alternatives.

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If you are a Windows user with Chrome installed on your PC, then this latest warning will impact you—you must update your browser as soon as you can…


Another critical Chrome update has just been issuedNURPHOTO VIA GETTY IMAGES

Another Chrome security update has just been issued, with the Stable channel updated to 124.0.6367.78/.79. This release includes a critical fix to the underlying graphics engine of the type that has allowed attackers to execute code on target machines in the past—albeit no news yet as to any exploitation this time around.

The update also includes two high-severity memory fixes—the kind typically seen in such updates. Google has acknowledged that such memory vulnerabilities in its core engine are the most frequently discovered and exploited. As usual, there is no further information “until a majority of users are updated with a fix.”

Given that Google has designated the first fix—essentially a vulnerability to potential code manipulation—as critical, it seems highly likely it’s a credible threat. And once the fix becomes public, users must update as soon as they can—the clock is ticking for any exploitation.

Usually, a critical fix might have been the biggest Chrome news of the week, but not this time. The other news is that the death of Chrome’s dreaded tracking cookies has been delayed once again—this time into early 2025, at least.

The issue is Google’s need to balance the privacy of its users with the seemingly fair treatment of its advertisers, especially when it essentially plays both gamekeeper (as owner of the browser) and poacher (as the world’s largest ad machine).

“We recognize that there are ongoing challenges related to reconciling divergent feedback from the industry, regulators and developers,” Google said in a post mid-week, “and will continue to engage closely with the entire ecosystem.”

That’s a critical update of an entirely different kind.

The update comes as Google’s ongoing engagement with the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) tries to carve a path through this messy situation. “We will not complete third-party cookie deprecation during the second half of Q4,” Google confirmed. “Assuming we can reach an agreement, we envision proceeding with third-party cookie deprecation starting early next year.”

Google is in something of a bind here, given its unique role in the industry. As web users become ever more privacy savvy, the gap between where Chrome is today and Apple’s Safari remains too wide. Chrome is an excellent browser, and its users rightly want to see it line up more closely with the alternatives.

Google seems to agree—notwithstanding its awkward Incognito Mode stumble—but it needs to find a compromise that doesn’t kill its ad model as well as those cookies.

Meanwhile, the bigger open question is around AI, of course, and just what this will mean for browser searching and advertising in the coming years. All told, by the time these cookies finally disappear, we may be in new territory anyway.

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Here's how



USPTO, the patent agency from the US government, has recently published a patent application from Microsoft that describes a system of tailored social media notifications based on engagement.

So, in other words, the Redmond company is developing a system for social media apps to send notifications, but they’re customized based on whether the receiver engages with the poster’s content a lot. The 22-page document‘s publication date is dated April 23, 2024, although Microsoft initially filed for it back in December 2022.



But what does it do? Well, when you follow people on social media apps, like Instagram, X, and YouTube for example, you can opt to get notified on their latest Insta post, tweet, or long video. This system is deemed as outdated because, truth be told, not everyone clicks on all of these “new post” notifications.

Microsoft wants to eliminate that. Even though you’ve followed or subscribed to these accounts, this system will only send you these notifications if you’re engaged with their content a lot (click, like, watch, etc.). Other than that, it will only send you occasional notifications. So, if you’re a content creator, you can use this information to create content that your audience likes a lot, lot better.



This method uses a “scoring system” called rAffinity, which measures how likely a content creator is to interact with a notification when a viewer engages with their content. It then guides content recommendations for content creators so that they know which content gets the most engagement.

It’s somewhat similar to what YouTube does by letting you get “all” or “personalized” notifications, but the difference is, that it’s the system itself that decides on the intensity of these notifications.

The USPTO has granted Microsoft this patent, just like the patent for a system that makes Bing’s reverse image search smarter, so we might see it in action soon. But it’s best to take this with a grain of salt: since most big social media apps aren’t Microsoft’s, except LinkedIn and Skype, they might have to work with other companies.

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(Image credit: Meta)

Meta has announced that its Meta Horizon OS will no longer be exclusive to its Quest headsets (such as the incredible Meta Quest 3), and this might be the most important news we’ll see in the XR space this decade.

It’s an announcement I’ve been expecting for years – for reasons I’ll outline below – but the short version is Meta has started to turn its Horizon OS into the Windows of the spatial computing era; it’s even complete with a rival Apple OS (the Apple Vision Pro’s VisionOS) and a dash of irony given one of the first three non-Quest systems will be Xbox branded (Xbox is Microsoft’s gaming department for those not in the know).

This means big things for us users, hardware makers, and VR game and app creators alike. But while this announcement is likely bigger than any Quest hardware announcement Meta could make – like a Meta Quest Pro 2 or Meta Quest 3 Lite reveal – it might end up being a double-edged sword.

Windows, Android, Meta Horizon OS

To get you up to speed, a Meta blog post has revealed that three third-party companies are working on devices built using Meta Horizon OS. Those are ASUS, Lenovo and the aforementioned Xbox.

From this announcement alone it sounds like we’re getting three very different pieces of hardware, with a “performance gaming headset,” “mixed reality devices for productivity,” and a more Quest-like headset being promised by the three companies respectively.

For me, this is the best thing about Horizon OS being opened up to third-parties: hardware diversity. Rather than having to put up with the two Quest types – which are the regular budget-friendly line, and the high-end, productivity-centric Pro line – other brands can explore different types of headsets to suit a broader range of needs while still offering access to the Horizon OS: the best standalone XR headset OS.

I say that because of Horizon OS’ amazing selection of virtual and mixed reality games and apps, as well as its solid feature set, and its general ease of use. Compared to others I’ve tried from the likes of HTC and Pico, Horizon OS is a clear cut above.


Take your Quest 3 games with you to other headsets (Image credit: Meta)

There’s also an advantage in the form of you now getting a cross-hardware library. Currently, if you want to transition to a new VR headset from a different brand you’ve previously had to say goodbye to your game and app collection.

Now, if you pick up a Quest headset and decide you want to get a more specialist gaming machine you could opt for Asus’s upcoming high-end VR gaming hardware without the risk of losing your digital library – instead, you can kickstart your new gaming experience with a whole suite of your favorite titles.

It also makes it easier for VR software creators to get their apps into more players’ hands. Rather than having to devote resources to several different OS’, they can build one Horizon OS build that can be enjoyed by a huge selection of players across a range of different devices – similar to how one Android app can be downloaded on a whole host of different phones.

This Horizon OS announcement feels like a big win for VR accessibility, and giving people access to the hardware they actually crave rather than forcing them to make do with what’s out there.

But why is Meta sharing its OS after years of exclusivity?

Cash is king

Well, the short answer is money, and while I’m not personally invested in Meta’s financial performance (and I expect many of you aren’t either) Quest users do have a reason for caring about the profitability of Meta’s Reality Labs division.

It’s an open secret that Reality Labs has been hemorrhaging cash. In the most recent earnings report at the time of writing, Meta said its Reality Labs had an operating loss of $4.65 billion (via CNBC) – and in total it’s lost over $42 billion since the end of 2020 which is when figures became publicly available.


Its AI smart glasses could be Meta's focus unless things improve (Image credit: Meta)

While Mark Zuckerberg, and Meta executives seem to have faith that virtual reality is the future – and appear to be banking on these current losses turning into profits and market domination down the line – there’s only so long that shareholders will be content with the poor performance of some Meta divisions hampering the dividends they receive.

Combine that with AI and other seemingly more profitable ventures rearing their heads, there’s a non-zero chance that Meta could scale back Reality Lab’s XR development, or even scrap it altogether to focus funds in other areas – which would kill Quest hardware and the metaverse for good.

By licensing its Horizon OS to other companies for a fee, Meta and Reality Labs can start to scale back these losses – buying the division more time in the eyes of shareholders and keeping Quest hardware alive for a little longer.

Obviously, it’s yet to be seen if this tactic will work. It could backfire and kill Quest anyway if a different hardware uses Horizon OS with a more exciting piece of VR hardware, but frankly, that's a Meta issue – if we’re getting great VR headsets, who cares who’s making them?

However, that’s not to say Meta’s Horizon OS  sharing won’t backfire for us in other ways.

The ugly side

Do we want a ‘Windows’ of the XR space?

Windows is one of the most – if not the most – despised pieces of software out there. Just look at our Windows 11 coverage and you’ll see article after article complaining about issues with the software. And Windows issues have existed for generations of the OS, yet we keep buying Windows machines – as of March 2024, 72.52% of desktop computers and laptops use Windows.


Windows 11 is bad, but what's the alternative? (Image credit: Microsoft)

Because what’s the alternative?

Sure you could jump ship to MacOS but it’s not perfect itself with its own occasional bugs, pricey hardware, and inability to run lots of popular software. Chrome OS also runs into those same software incompatibility issues, and others like Linux and Ubuntu are far from approachable if you’re not tech-savvy.

The lack of competition brought about by Windows’ domination has undoubtedly played a part in the OS’ problems and a general lack of truly exciting innovation in the computer OS space. As more and more hardware makers partner with Meta, we might see Horizon OS adopt this ugly side of Windows.

Apple’s Vision Pro, the Samsung XR headset (which I expect Google to handle the OS side of things for given it's announced as an official partner for the headset), and HTC’s standalone VR devices are just some of the brands that should serve as competition to Horizon OS – not to mention PC VR hardware from the likes of Pimax and others – and hopefully they’ll help to keep things exciting.

But only time will tell if Meta will follow Microsoft's Windows and mimic its issues, or dodge its failings.

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