According to new reports, Microsoft is allegedly preparing to present the next generation of its operating system this year – Windows 12. The new system should be significantly different from previous versions, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence and the modular structure of the operating system.
Windows 12 introduces modular design and mandatory AI infrastructure
According to available information, Windows 12 is being developed under the code name “Hudson Valley Next” and it is expected that it could be introduced around the time when support for Windows 10 ends.
The key change refers to the so-called CorePC architecture. It is a project that Microsoft has been developing for several years, which would enable a completely modular system structure. This means that certain parts of the operating system could be added or removed depending on the needs of the device: for example, configurations optimized for gaming, light business computers or devices with weaker hardware.
This approach should allow greater flexibility and easier optimization of the system for different types of computers.
Visually, a significant change in the interface is also expected. Elements of a transparent “glass” design are mentioned, as well as a “floating” taskbar.
Subscription for advanced AI features and new hardware requirements
A large part of the new possibilities will be related to AI. Microsoft plans to make the integration of the Microsoft Copilot assistant a central part of the operating system, not just an additional feature.
At the same time, certain advanced AI functions could be available through a subscription model. This would mean that part of the AI service would be locked behind an additional monthly or annual subscription.
Another important change relates to hardware requirements. After Windows 11 introduced the mandatory TPM 2.0 module, Windows 12 could also require a special NPU processor (Neural Processing Unit), intended to accelerate AI operations.
Since NPU chips are only gradually appearing in new laptops and processors, such a requirement could potentially prevent a large number of existing computers from upgrading to the new version of the system.
However, users will not be forced to switch quickly, as Windows 11 will remain supported for several more years, reports T4G.