Windows 12

Winsage
July 9, 2025
Windows 11 version 25H2 introduces a feature called Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages, allowing users, particularly IT administrators, to remove preinstalled Microsoft applications such as Camera, Sound Recorder, Windows Media Player, Xbox, Windows Terminal, and Notepad. This feature is accessible under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment and simplifies the uninstallation process compared to previous methods like PowerShell. Users may still see non-functional shortcuts in the Start menu after removal. The first preview build of version 25H2 was released recently, and a public release is expected later this year. Similar uninstall features will also be available in version 24H2, though disabled by default. Windows 11 has recently surpassed Windows 10 in user base, partly due to the upcoming end of Windows 10 support.
Winsage
July 8, 2025
The end of support for Windows 10, originally set for October 14, 2025, has been postponed for certain users, particularly accounting firms, allowing them more time to upgrade. Microsoft has introduced an Extended Security Updates program for select Windows 10 users, which requires a fee per device for continued security updates, but does not include new features or general tech support. A December 2023 report indicates that 47% of accountants still rely on Windows 10, with approximately 25% of Windows 10 PCs actively used in accounting firms. Over half of all devices have migrated to Windows 11, which holds about 52% of the market. Experts recommend delaying upgrades to Windows 11 in favor of Windows 12, expected to be more optimized for AI, with potential hardware investments needed for the transition.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
Valve's hardware survey data shows that Windows 10 remains the dominant operating system among PC gamers, with a slow decline expected despite Microsoft's upcoming support cessation. Windows 11 has not surpassed 60% in any Steam survey sample, and its growth has been stagnant. Windows 7 currently holds a mere 0.1% share, and projections suggest it could take about 82 months for Windows 10 to reach that level if trends continue. Linux's share has increased from around 1% to over 2.5% in three years, while Windows 11's growth has only seen a 3.7x increase during the same period. The survey indicates that the launch of the Steam Deck has had a limited impact on Linux adoption.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
Microsoft has decided not to release a standalone "Windows 12" and will instead focus on the upcoming Windows 11 version 25H2, with a wider rollout expected in the latter half of 2025. The latest Insider Preview build for this version is now available to testers. The 25H2 update will build on the existing 24H2 release, allowing users to transition seamlessly with a small enablement package that mimics a routine update installation. Features from the 24H2 Beta Channel will be included in the 25H2 preview, with enhancements already integrated but disabled until ready. The official support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025, and the timing of the 25H2 launch may encourage users to upgrade. Enterprises will receive a 36-month support cycle, while consumer editions will have 24 months of servicing. Windows Insiders can explore the preview now and provide feedback, with a simple restart required for activation upon official release.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
Microsoft announced that Windows is now running on just over 1 billion devices globally, a decrease from the previously claimed 1.4 billion devices. This suggests that as many as 400 million PCs may no longer be using Windows, indicating a potential decline in market share since the launch of Windows 11 three years ago. Windows has reportedly lost approximately 15% of its market share since 2015. Windows 10 is approaching its end of support, and Windows 11 is expected to become the most widely used desktop operating system within the next year. There are concerns about Windows 11's stagnation and perceptions of it pushing users towards Microsoft services.
Winsage
June 30, 2025
Microsoft has announced that Windows 11 25H2 is forthcoming, serving as a feature enablement update rather than a complete overhaul, sharing the same underlying source code as Windows 11 24H2. Windows Insiders have already gained early access to 25H2, which will introduce additional features activated through an enablement package. Jason Leznek, Principal Project Manager for Windows Servicing and Delivery, noted the seamless compatibility between the two versions, advising a focus on new features rather than a comprehensive review of the operating system. Windows 11 24H2 has faced various issues since its release in 2024, leading to compatibility holds from Microsoft. A significant change in Windows 11 25H2 includes the retirement of the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD), which will be replaced by a black "unexpected restart" screen, while still allowing users to view the stop error code. Microsoft is also introducing quick recovery options for PCs that have trouble restarting and enhancing its security framework by allowing antivirus and endpoint protection vendors to operate in user mode outside of the Windows kernel. The BSoD replacement is expected to roll out on Windows 11 24H2 devices over the summer and will be a key feature of Windows 11 25H2. Additionally, the Windows endpoint security platform will enter private preview in July.
Winsage
June 29, 2025
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 will evolve into version 25H2 later this year, with the first Insider Preview build now available for testing. Version 25H2 maintains the same platform release and servicing stack as version 24H2, allowing for a straightforward upgrade process similar to a quick restart. New features for version 25H2 are expected to be rolled out later and may also be made available to users of versions 24H2 and 23H2. The release of version 25H2 will reset the support timeline to 35 months for enterprise editions and 24 months for consumer and pro editions.
Winsage
June 29, 2025
Microsoft has confirmed that the next version of its operating system is Windows 11 version 25H2, which became available to the Windows Insider community and is planned for broader availability in the second half of 2025. The support lifecycle for Enterprise and Education editions will be 36 months, while Pro editions will have a 24-month lifecycle. Windows 11 version 25H2 transitions from version 24H2 with build 26200.5670, maintaining a synchronized approach across all supported versions. It is built on the same codebase as 24H2, ensuring no new compatibility issues arise. New features will debut in 25H2 and will be rolled out to 24H2 through monthly cumulative updates, initially in a disabled state.
Winsage
June 19, 2025
Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, especially with Windows 10 set to lose support in October 2025. Currently, Windows 10 holds 48.92% of the market share, while Windows 11 has reached 47.73%. A year ago, Windows 10 had a 66% share compared to Windows 11's nearly 30%. The migration is driven by the impending end of support for Windows 10, and Microsoft is actively promoting this change. They are also introducing a PC migration tool for users who wish to upgrade. Despite these efforts, some users remain hesitant to switch due to compatibility concerns or dissatisfaction with Windows 11 updates.
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