A recent report from a well-known insider, Zac Bowden, has sparked a fresh wave of speculation about the addition of cutting-edge AI in Microsoft’s upcoming Windows release. Codenamed Hudson Valley and scheduled for a September or October 2024 launch, the new Windows version is expected to be heavily focused on artificial intelligence, introducing groundbreaking features. However, the big question remains: Will it be Windows 12 or another iteration of Windows 11?
Windows 12 is likely to fragment the user base even more, with users still sticking to the older versions for obvious reasons
According to Bowden’s sources within Microsoft, there is internal skepticism about labeling Hudson Valley as Windows 12. The primary concern cited is Microsoft’s wariness of further fragmenting the user base. According to reports, Windows 10 is still more popular than Windows 11. The company currently oversees approximately 1.4 billion Windows users, with only half a billion on the latest version of Windows. Meanwhile, 1 billion users are still relying on Windows 10 or older versions.
It’s not like Windows users aren’t interested in new features and revamped look, but the compatibility of older systems has prevented many from getting to the newest version. The speculated next-generation AI features of Windows 12 will likely require up-to-date NPU hardware to function. So, Windows 12 will also prevent some Windows 11 users from upgrading to it. So, introducing a new version will likely increase the fragmentation even further. If anything, it will only complicate the support and management of these diverse systems.
However, the potential move away from Windows 12 doesn’t mean the end of significant changes. Microsoft is reportedly considering adjustments to its approach to Windows updates. While the current model includes frequent ‘Moment’ (smaller) updates throughout the year, Microsoft is planning a return to a more traditional annual feature update cycle, with fewer ‘Moment’ updates.
Microsoft might continue the AI addition with Windows 11
The speculation surrounding the naming decision gains weight when considering the recently leaked information about Windows 11 24H2. This lends credibility to the notion that Microsoft may prioritize maintaining a more unified Windows user base under the Windows 11 umbrella.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision on whether to brand the Hudson Valley release as Windows 12 or another iteration of Windows 11 is still up in the air.
2023-12-11 15:06:08