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Windows 12: Rumors and Speculations Debunked

Rumors have been circulating that Windows 12, the next installment in Microsoft’s operating system lineup, will be offered as a subscription-based service. However, let us set the record straight by stating that these rumors are unfounded. The code strings found in Windows 11 previews that seemingly hinted at a subscription-based model actually referred to the “IoT Enterprise Subscription” and not the main Windows operating system.

Although Microsoft has not officially confirmed the development of Windows 12, speculations suggest that it might be released in 2024, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud capabilities, potentially posing a challenge to Google’s Chrome OS.

Contrary to the ongoing speculation, Windows 12 is not expected to be a subscription-based service. Microsoft has never introduced a subscription model for its client Windows versions in the past, and there is no indication that they intend to do so in the future. Rest assured, Microsoft will not charge users for Windows 12.

Nevertheless, some disgruntled users have taken to the Hacker News forums to express their concerns regarding the subscription-based rumors surrounding Windows 12. However, it should be noted that these rumors are based on code strings related to the “IoT Enterprise Subscription” for Windows 11 and not the upcoming Windows 12, also known as Windows 24H2 or Windows vNext.

The confusion arises from the fact that some media outlets have wrongly associated the code strings found in the preview builds of Windows 11 with Windows 12. In reality, these code strings are associated with an entirely separate version of Windows 11 designed for IoT Enterprise use and are not indicative of Microsoft’s plans for Windows 12 or future versions of the operating system.

Regarding Windows 365, it is possible that a consumer edition may be introduced, as we previously reported. However, this does not imply that Windows 12 itself will be subscription-based. It is important to distinguish between the two.

While Microsoft has not yet officially confirmed the existence of Windows 12, it is understood that the next version of the operating system will be heavily integrated with AI and cloud capabilities. Microsoft aims to compete with Google’s Chrome OS by offering a web-based platform. Our sources also suggest that a lightweight, web and cloud-based variant of Windows 12 is under development, as Microsoft seeks to learn from the shortcomings of its previous lightweight attempt, Windows 10X.

With the end of Windows 10 support scheduled for 2025, it would make sense for Microsoft to introduce a new version of the operating system, enabling users with older PCs to transition to newer ones. Consequently, Windows 12 may have more stringent system requirements, aligning with the push from PC manufacturers to sell new devices.

However, it is crucial to remember that all these details remain unconfirmed rumors until Microsoft makes an official announcement. Therefore, it is wise to approach any information regarding the next version of Windows with skepticism.

In conclusion, contrary to the subscription-based rumors, Windows 12 (or whatever it may be named) is not expected to follow a subscription model. Microsoft has a track record of offering its client Windows versions as one-time purchases, and we have no reason to believe this will change in the future.