New AI-powered features: what will Windows 12 be like and when to expect the release

The capabilities of artificial intelligence are penetrating deeper and deeper into our everyday technologies. And we will be able to see them in the 12th version of the Windows operating system, which is currently being developed by Microsoft.

According to Technopedia, a new version of the world's most popular desktop OS is expected in 2025. However, there are already many rumors in the press about its capabilities, features, and system requirements.

As for the release date of Windows 12, experts expect it to become available between July and October 2025. Initially, it was expected to be released in 2024, but then it became known that Microsoft would release Windows 11 in version 24H2 before it.

Based on it, experts make predictions about what the 12th version of the popular OS might look like. It is likely that AI will be widely used in it. The Copilot assistant has already demonstrated its ability to provide a more personalized and efficient experience. It is now expected that its future updates can significantly improve interaction and control.

Windows 11 24H2, which will be released soon, also includes improved HDR support, additional compression tools in Windows Explorer, and the long-awaited Wi-Fi 7 support. Most likely, all of these features will be retained in Windows 12.

One potential area of improvement is the expansion of AI-powered search capabilities similar to those found in the Windows 11 taskbar. Users can now easily use the corresponding icon to search for content in Microsoft 365.

Additionally, the "Recommended" section in the explorer, which suggests files and folders based on user behavior, could be further enhanced and expanded with advanced AI algorithms. Another likely integration is to suggest actions to the user through a virtual assistant that can anticipate human needs and provide appropriate recommendations.

As for the technical specifications required to install and use Windows 12, it looks like it will need a 64-bit processor with 2 or more cores, at least 4-8 GB of RAM, and 16 GB or more of storage to run. It will be so demanding precisely because of the presence of AI in the system.

Experts already agree that a solid-state drive (SSD) will be the best choice for such requirements, given its higher read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). You will probably need a minimum of 256 GB of storage and for users with large file sizes, 512 GB or more.

Graphics requirements are likely to be stricter. A graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 (DX12) or later is considered the minimum acceptable. It is expected that Windows 12 specifications will be significantly similar to those of Windows 11, although a 64-bit processor may become mandatory.

Similar to its predecessors, Windows 12 is likely to be released in versions that correspond to the current Home and Pro. We can also expect different levels of features, security, and support in the versions, as is the case with Windows 11.

Regarding the price and payment system for the operating system, it is now believed that Microsoft will offer Windows 12 as a free optional upgrade for Windows 11 users, but most likely as a paid upgrade for Windows 10.

For those who want to buy a standalone copy of Windows 12, the company will likely follow the Windows 11 pricing model. In that case, we can expect Windows 12 Home to cost more than the $139 currently charged for Windows 11 Home. Windows 12 Pro may cost about $199.99 or more.

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