Windows 12 Release Date: What We Know (and What You Should Do)

The latest on the Windows 12 release date, features, expected upgrade path and how to prepare your PC.

What we know so far

No official announcement: Microsoft has not yet confirmed a specific release date for Windows 12.
Estimated timeframe:

• Many outlets suggest Fall (second half) 2025 is most realistic.
• Others push the possibility into early 2026, factoring in delays and longer support of Windows 11.
• Some older rumours had pointed to 2024 but those are now largely discounted.
  Why late 2025 makes sense:
• Support for Windows 10 ends in October 2025.
• Microsoft has historically favoured autumn launches for major OS versions.

What’s uncertain

• Whether Windows 12 will be a free upgrade for eligible Windows 11 users.
• Exact features, system requirements and hardware eligibility. (E.g., AI/ML support, bigger RAM/SSD demands)
• Whether the release will be simultaneous worldwide or region-phased.
• Naming: “Windows 12” is still speculative; some suggest it could be another major update to Windows 11 rather than a full “12”.

What to expect (and how to prepare)

Likely features & changes

• Enhanced AI integration Microsoft is moving heavily into AI-driven workflows.
• Possibly higher hardware requirements: faster CPU, SSD mandatory, maybe special chip (NPU) support.
• UI/UX tweaks, security improvements: new taskbar, notification centre updates, etc. Microsoft Learn+1

What you (or your organization) should do

• Check your hardware now: If you’re planning for upgrade, verify that your PC meets potential higher requirements (e.g., SSD, modern CPU, sufficient RAM).
• Plan your upgrade budget: If it’s not free, or if you’ll need new hardware, factoring in cost now helps.
• Stay compatible: For businesses, ensure software/hardware you use will support the new OS or have fallback options.
• Keep current OS patched: Since Windows 11 will remain supported for a while, updating ensures smoother transition later.
• Watch Microsoft announcements: Official confirmation will change many details (date, pricing, upgrade path) so set alerts for Microsoft’s Windows blog/news.

Why timing matters

• With Windows 10 support ending October 2025, many organisations see this as a forced inflection point to consider a new OS.
• Launching in Q4 2025 (or early 2026) gives Microsoft and hardware OEMs time to ramp up compatible PCs and drivers.
• Early adopters might gain access to the OS first but also might face teething bugs. Waiting a few months post-launch may be prudent.