Essential Facts About Microsoft Windows Operating System
Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows 11, officially launched in October 2021, and the company is already working on its successor. Here's what we know so far about the upcoming versions of Windows.
Windows 11 version 24H2 (Hudson Valley)
The third major update to Windows 11, codenamed Hudson Valley, was rolled out to all users starting October 1, 2024. This update introduces notable features such as the first Windows 11-based Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) editions and new subscription variants of IoT Enterprise editions.
Possible Windows 12 version
Rumours suggest that a future Windows version, internally codenamed Hudson Valley or sometimes associated with Windows 12, is in the works. The anticipated release date is late 2026 or early 2027, according to some sources, with development ongoing but no official Microsoft announcement yet.
The rumoured features for this new version include a continued shift towards AI-first computing, an enhanced AI assistant (Copilot), improved recommendations based on user activity, a more adaptive user interface, a modular architecture, better alignment with cloud workflows and AI-assisted productivity, and enhancements for longer battery life on portable devices.
However, earlier rumours predicted a Windows 12 launch between July and October 2025 with a strong AI focus and possibly reintroducing ads in the Start menu. But these appear to have been superseded by the Windows 11 24H2 update being the latest major release in 2024, and Windows 12 likely delayed to 2026 or beyond.
Upcoming Windows 11 version 25H2
The 25H2 update for Windows 11 is expected to release later this year, aligning closely with the scheduled end of support for Windows 10 in October. Unlike previous versions, this forthcoming update will install via a lightweight enablement package, making the upgrade experience nearly as fast as a typical cumulative update.
The OS is anticipated to better align with modern cloud workflows, AI-assisted productivity, and longer-lasting battery life on portable devices. The 25H2 update will also bring broader support for AI hardware, improved security with more advanced chip-level protection, and faster boot and update times.
In summary, while the exact features and release date of the upcoming Windows versions are yet to be officially confirmed, it's clear that Microsoft is focusing on enhancing AI capabilities, improving user interface, and aligning the OS with modern cloud workflows and AI-assisted productivity. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.
In the pipeline for Windows, the anticipated Windows 12 version is speculated to be developed with a continued focus on AI-first computing, featuring an enhanced AI assistant, improved recommendations based on user activity, a more adaptive user interface, a modular architecture, better alignment with cloud workflows and AI-assisted productivity, and longer battery life on portable devices. These rumors suggest its release date might be late 2026 or early 2027.
On the other hand, the upcoming Windows 11 version 25H2, expected to release later this year, is planned to better align with modern cloud workflows, AI-assisted productivity, and longer-lasting battery life on portable devices. It will also bring broader support for AI hardware, improved security with more advanced chip-level protection, and faster boot and update times.
