A senior Microsoft executive has hinted at a transformative shift in user interaction with future versions of Windows. In a recent discussion on the Windows IT Pro podcast, Pavan Davuluri, who leads Microsoft’s Windows and Devices division, alluded to the potential of the next operating system—possibly Windows 12—to deliver a more “multimodal” experience, leveraging on-device AI capabilities.
Davuluri emphasized the importance of integrating features like Copilot in Windows and M365 Copilot, suggesting that these advancements will harness the power of emerging AI technologies. “We see value in the Windows operating system itself having intrinsic understanding of these new AI models that are running in them and taking advantage of new capabilities,” he remarked.
Windows 12 will be a more interactive experience
The multimodality that Davuluri envisions for the upcoming operating system is poised to be a cornerstone for innovative interactive features, particularly in the realm of voice input. This evolution not only signifies a natural progression in user interaction—especially with the advent of on-device natural language processing—but also enhances accessibility, as pointed out by host Christiaan Brinkhoff.
“I think we will see computing become more ambient, more pervasive, continue to span form factors, and certainly become more multi-modal in the arc of time,” Davuluri stated. He reflected on the journey from traditional desktop setups to the current landscape, noting, “We started with the notion of a desktop and a keyboard and a mouse and a monitor. We’ve gone through several revolutions, several technology new paradigm shifts.”
He further elaborated on the importance of experience diversity, predicting that voice interaction will gain prominence. “So you’ll be able to speak to your computer while writing, inking, interacting with another person, for example. You should be able to have the computer semantically understand your intent to interact with it,” he explained.
We’re going to be waiting a while for Windows 12
As speculation surrounding the announcement of Windows 12 intensifies, particularly with Windows 11 nearing its four-year mark in October, anticipation is palpable. However, hopes for an imminent reveal were tempered when Microsoft confirmed a significant update for Windows 11, known as 25H2, set to roll out later this year. This update is expected to align with the end-of-life deadline for Windows 10, a challenge that has loomed large for the tech giant.
In recent years, Microsoft has made concerted efforts to transition users to Windows 11, yet many have been hesitant to make the switch, largely due to the enduring popularity of Windows 10. Notably, Windows 11 has only recently surpassed its predecessor in global user count, underscoring the challenges Microsoft continues to face in this endeavor.
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