- Windows 12 will arrive with deep integration of artificial intelligence, new requirements, and changes to its interface.
- The update will bring significant improvements in performance, security, and customization.
- It will be key to review your hardware compatibility and prepare for potential new licensing and pricing models.
¿What will change with Windows 12 and how can you prepare now? The launch of Windows 12 is just around the corner, marking the beginning of a new era for PC users worldwide. Although Microsoft has yet to make a final official announcement, leaked information and analysis of previous versions suggest radical changes that will affect both those who want to stay up-to-date and those seeking stability and security.
In this article, we'll tell you, in a clear, natural, and detailed way, what transformations Windows 12 brings, why the leap could be the most significant in years, and, above all, how you can prepare now to avoid being left behind, whether in hardware or software.
Why will Windows 12 be a turning point?
Windows 12 isn't just a continuation of Windows 11, but a reimagined platform with AI at its core, renewed requirements, and a visual and interactive experience that breaks with the recent past. Microsoft, which for years maintained that Windows 10 would be the final version, has shifted toward a model of periodic releases every 2-3 years, seeking to accelerate innovation and adapt to new ways of using computers: from hybrid work to extreme gaming or advanced management of personal and professional data.
Windows 10 users face the imminent end of official support (October 2025), And the company has taken advantage of this situation to redefine the experience, also pushing for equipment updates and the jump to technologies that will be mandatory to take full advantage of Windows 12's potential.
Windows 12's top new features: what we already know and what we expect
The arrival of Windows 12 will represent a true technological revolution for compatible devices. Leaks and reports from early testers paint a picture full of surprises, with aesthetic and functional changes that go far beyond the simple tweaks we were accustomed to in previous updates.
- Advanced integration of artificial intelligence: If Copilot was already important in Windows 11, in Windows 12 it will no longer be a simple button or sidebar but will be present throughout the entire system. AI will help you search for files, summarize documents, organize information, customize system usage, and optimize every corner of Windows.
- Windows Recall and Contextual Experiences: One of the big surprises will be the "Recall" feature, which enhances the retrieval of recent activities and files with natural language, allowing you to search for "what you were doing last week" without worrying about folder paths. Ideal for professionals and users who work with large volumes of information.
- Optimization for chips with NPU: The new processors (from Intel, AMD and other manufacturers) integrate NPUs (Neural Processing Unit) that will handle AI tasks, freeing up the main processor and offering a faster, smoother and more energy-efficient system.
- Radical interface overhaul: Goodbye to the classic taskbar: The floating taskbar arrives, accompanied by advanced visual effects, new icons, and perfect adaptation to screens of all shapes and sizes. Everything will be more customizable and modern, seeking to look more like macOS or Linux in some ways, but maintaining the Windows essence.
- Gaming and entertainment enhancements: The jump to DirectX 13 is expected, better integration with cloud services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, and new tools to optimize gaming performance thanks to artificial intelligence.
- Modular and secure system: Windows 12 will rely on a structure in different partitions, known internally as CoreOS, to achieve Much faster updates, easier system resets, and compartmentalization that makes it difficult to access critical areas of the system.
- Dramatic increase in customization: Users will be able to customize themes, widgets, desktop, and shortcuts like never before, tailoring the system to their own style and daily routines. Dynamic themes, advanced widgets, and contextual settings will take center stage.
- Security at the highest level: Microsoft is not short on protection against cyberattacks: multi-factor authentication as standard, enhanced encryption, and active threat monitoring using artificial intelligence. Everything to protect data for both individuals and companies.
However, as of today it has been delayed and we tell you about it in this article about the keys to the delay of Windows 12.
Minimum and recommended requirements for Windows 12: Is your PC ready?
Windows 12 will require a more advanced hardware configuration than any previous version, especially if you want to take advantage of its flagship features. The minimum requirements and recommendations for enjoying the full experience are as follows:
- 64-bit processor (ARM/x86) of at least 1GHz with multiple cores. However, for AI capabilities and optimal speed, it's recommended to opt for chips with an integrated NPU.
- Official minimum RAM memory: 4 GB, although specialized sources already warn that to really take advantage of all the features (AI, advanced multitasking, Recall, etc.) the ideal is 8 GB or even more.
- Minimum storage of 64 GB, but it is recommended to have a fast SSD and, if possible, 256 GB of internal space to maintain fluidity and access speed.
- UEFI with Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 chip (mandatory since Windows 11 and even more critical in this generation).
- Screen of at least 9 inches and resolution 1366×768 px.
- DirectX 12 compatible graphics card (or higher for advanced gaming).
- Internet connection required both for the installation and for the activation and use of certain AI functions.
What will the transition look like? Upgrades, licensing, and possible payment models
One of the biggest debates revolves around how Microsoft will distribute Windows 12 and the price for end users. If we stick to the precedent of Windows 10 and Windows 11, the update It could be free for those who have a valid and recent license, especially if you're already using Windows 11 on a compatible PC.
Even so, various sources indicate that the company could tighten requirements and, in some cases, propose a shift to a subscription model, similar to the current Office 365, especially for advanced functions or business environments. This would mean paying a monthly or annual fee for full access or certain premium capabilities.
Another tricky issue will be what to do with Windows 10 users once support ends: After October 2025, they will no longer receive free security updates, although extended paid support will continue. At that point, upgrading to Windows 11 or waiting for Windows 12 will be almost the only way to maintain day-to-day security.
How to get ready for Windows 12 now
The best strategy is to anticipate and review your current situation:
- Check your equipment compatibility: Review the requirements, update your BIOS if necessary, and make sure you have TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot enabled.
- Upgrade your hardware if necessary: If your PC is short on RAM, storage, or lacks an NPU, consider investing in a new computer or upgrading key components.
- Make a full backup of your data and settings to avoid any unexpected problems during the transition.
- Evaluate your licenses and the version of Windows you are using: If you have Windows 11 on a modern device, the upgrade will be straightforward and easy. If you're still on Windows 10, consider whether you'd prefer to wait or upgrade to the intermediate version.
- Stay informed about new features, beta versions, or Insider programs, where you can try out advanced Windows 12 features before anyone else.
Frequently asked questions and what is yet to be confirmed
The final name of the system may vary: Although all the rumors are already talking about Windows 12, it's not ruled out that Microsoft could opt for a different name (Windows AI, Windows Next, etc.), focusing on artificial intelligence. However, everything indicates that the new number will be the official identifier, at least in the initial phase of the launch.
To date, there is no confirmation that the update will be completely free for all users. Microsoft could choose to repeat the free licensing model for compatible devices, but exclude those that don't meet the new requirements (especially those with hardware older than five years). Paid extended support will remain the option for those who can't or don't want to upgrade immediately.
Regarding the specific productivity and collaboration improvements, a is expected even deeper integration with Microsoft 365, allowing instant synchronization with Teams, OneDrive and other cloud tools, ideal for those who work remotely or in distributed teams. In any case, if you still want to continue with Windows 11 Remember that you can still download an ISO image from their official website.
The community of experts and users agrees that one of the biggest revolutions in the Windows ecosystem is coming., but also warns of potential challenges: increased technical requirements, changing business models, adapting to a much more customizable interface, and, above all, the need to review privacy and data management policies (especially as AI becomes ubiquitous). In any case,
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