Microsoft’s Windows operating system has long been a source of intrigue, with users frequently seeking clarity on various enigmas. Queries range from the curious absence of Windows 9 to the perplexing question of how artificial intelligence emerged before a satisfactory Windows Search performance. As the community looks to Microsoft for insights, a recent social media post humorously highlighted the disconnect: “It’s always ‘when is Windows 12 coming’ and never ‘how are you doing, person who runs the Windows account?'”
Holding out for a hero? Windows 12 isn’t your savior
Among the steadfast Windows 10 users, a familiar refrain echoes: “No thanks, I’ll wait for Windows 12,” even as the end-of-support date for Windows 11 looms on October 14, 2025. This sentiment reveals a deeper understanding of a curious trend in Windows releases—where every alternate version seems to falter before being succeeded by a supposedly superior option.
This pattern, while perhaps bordering on superstition, is hard to ignore:
- Windows 95: Good
- Windows 98: Bad
- Windows 98 SE: Good
- Windows ME: Bad
- Windows XP: Good
- Windows Vista: Bad
- Windows 7: Good
- Windows 8: Bad
- Windows 10: Good
- Windows 11: Kill it with fire
Logically, one might assume that the next major release, presumably Windows 12, is destined for greatness. However, if history is any guide, those who are dissatisfied with Windows 11 may find themselves equally discontented with Windows 12, should it ever materialize.
(Image credit: Rael Hornby / Ljupco / iStock)
Be careful what you wish for
Despite the fervor surrounding the prospect of Windows 12, it’s essential to approach this topic with caution. A single post from a social media manager should not be interpreted as a harbinger of the new operating system’s imminent launch. To date, there has been no formal announcement from Microsoft regarding Windows 12, and perhaps it is best to keep it that way.
If Windows 12 does make its debut—an if that cannot be overstated—it is likely to come with hardware requirements that make the current TPM 2.0 seem trivial. Microsoft’s significant investment in artificial intelligence suggests that the next iteration of Windows will be tailored for a Copilot+ PC experience, necessitating substantial upgrades for users to keep pace with the latest NPU-equipped hardware.
As the operating system evolves, Windows 12 may not merely incorporate AI; it could become heavily reliant on it, leaving countless Windows 10 users lamenting their outdated hardware, which may soon resemble relics from a bygone era.
For those dissatisfied with Windows 11, the last thing they should do is pressure Microsoft for a Windows 12 release. Instead, it may be prudent to allow Microsoft to focus on refining its current offering before venturing into uncharted territory.
In the interim, the open-source world of Linux remains a viable alternative for those seeking a different computing experience.
