2022---windows-12--new-operating-system-already-in-the-works-

: Microsoft may stick with the "Windows 11" branding longer to avoid further fragmenting the user base, given that many PCs still cannot officially run Windows 11 due to hardware requirements. Summary of Key Dates Early 2022 First reports of a three-year release cycle. Late 2022

: Allowing Windows to run lean on low-end hardware while remaining powerful on workstations. Current Status: Windows 11 24H2 vs. Windows 12

: Instead of waiting years for new features, Microsoft introduced "Moments"—smaller, more frequent feature drops for Windows 11. : Microsoft may stick with the "Windows 11"

: Building on "Copilot," the OS would likely have AI baked into the kernel for system-level automation and search.

Major update (24H2) released; speculation continues for a 2025 Windows 12. Current Status: Windows 11 24H2 vs

: Instead of a "Windows 12" launch in 2024, Microsoft focused on the Windows 11 2024 Update (24H2) . This version includes many of the "AI PC" features originally rumored for Windows 12.

: Early design prototypes shown at Microsoft events sparked rumors of a "floating" taskbar and a search bar located at the top of the screen. Major update (24H2) released; speculation continues for a

Concept UI with a floating taskbar accidentally teased at Ignite.