Windows 12: What to expect from Microsoft’s next major update

If you thought you’ve seen Windows 11 for too long, and that it is time for your laptop or PC to taste a new flavour of Windows, you’re not alone. Thankfully, it seems Microsoft already has the next version of Windows in the pipeline. Going by rumours, Windows 12 is expected to hit PCs some time in 2024. Curious about what to expect? Check out this quick look at the top expected features and additions in Windows 12.

Expected features in Windows 12

1. Modular operating system

2. Neon support for legacy apps

3. AI capabilities

4. Upgraded REFS file support system

5. Visual upgrades

1. Modular operating system

The upcoming Windows 12, as per reports, will include the new CorePC project, a modular operating system concept. While not much is known about Microsoft’s modular OS plans, CorePC will likely help with delivering faster updates, better security, and enhanced AI capabilities to users.

2. Neon support for legacy apps

As per rumours, the software giant is also developing a new compatibility layer for legacy apps, or older, outdated programs. For many users, older programs that have not been updated in recent years (a.k.a. legacy programs) are quite important, and not being able to run them on modern hardware can be a nuisance. The new “Neon” compatibility layer will use state separation for the legacy apps to work seamlessly.

3. AI capability

Windows Copilot, which was introduced in Windows 11, will have stronger integration in Windows 12.

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The enhanced AI capabilities may include contextual text prompts that can be extracted from objects and images with a simple copy-paste option. These new abilities could further enhance Copilot to act more like a well-integrated personal assistant on your PC.

4. Upgraded REFS file support system

Windows 12 is also expected to include a new Resilient File System (ReFS). ReFS is a technology that overcomes the storage constraint of the New Technology File System (NTFS) by handling larger file volumes. For users, this could mean moving beyond the size limitations of NTFS that have plagued power users for years.

5. Visual upgrades

While new Windows versions will also often feature a visual revamp of some sort, Windows 12 in particular is expected to come with slight tweaks to elements like the taskbar.

Rumours suggest that the new interface is expected to have a floating taskbar with rounded corners and a new top bar that will display information like the weather, time and notifications. Other changes include live wallpapers that will be able to change based on the time of the day.

Those are some of the changes expected to drop with Microsoft Windows 12. However, note that all these features are not yet confirmed by Microsoft officially, so we suggest taking them with a grain of salt. Meanwhile, you can enjoy all the new features offered in the Windows 11 23H2 update, which include RGB support, a new file manager and plenty of other additions.