As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, there was no official announcement or release of Windows 12 by Microsoft. However, it is possible that Microsoft may release a new version of Windows with a different name in the future.
In this article, I will discuss the possible new features and improvements that Microsoft could include in a hypothetical Windows 12 release, based on current trends in technology and user feedback.
Improved User Interface
The user interface (UI) of Windows has gone through many changes over the years, and Windows 12 could bring a fresh and modern design to the table. It is possible that Microsoft may further refine the Fluent Design language, which was introduced in Windows 10 and includes features like transparency effects, depth, and motion.
Windows 12 could also include a new Start menu design, which has been a point of criticism for some users in recent years. Microsoft may bring back the live tiles concept, which was introduced in Windows 8 but later removed in Windows 10. Alternatively, Microsoft could go for a more minimalistic approach, with a simplified Start menu that focuses on search functionality.
Improved Multitasking and Virtual Desktops
Windows has always been a multitasking powerhouse, and Windows 12 could bring even more improvements to this aspect. Virtual desktops have been a feature in Windows since Windows 10, and Microsoft could expand on this functionality in Windows 12. It is possible that Microsoft may include a more intuitive way to switch between virtual desktops or add new ones.
Another potential improvement could be the ability to snap more than two windows side by side. Currently, Windows 10 allows users to snap two windows side by side, but this could be expanded to allow for more simultaneous windows. This would be particularly useful for users with larger displays.
Improved File Explorer
File Explorer is one of the most frequently used apps in Windows, and Microsoft could bring some much-needed improvements to this application in Windows 12. One possibility is a new UI for File Explorer, which could make it easier to navigate and organize files. Microsoft could also improve the search functionality, making it easier to find specific files.
Another potential improvement could be the addition of tabs to File Explorer. This would allow users to have multiple folders open in a single File Explorer window, which would be a huge time-saver for power users.
Improved Gaming Performance
Gaming has become a major part of Windows, and Microsoft could include improvements to gaming performance in Windows 12. One possibility is the inclusion of DirectX 12 Ultimate, which was released in March 2020. This new version of DirectX includes improvements in ray tracing, mesh shaders, and variable rate shading, all of which could improve the overall gaming experience.
Another potential improvement could be the addition of a game mode, similar to what is currently available in Windows 10. This mode would prioritize system resources for gaming, improving performance and reducing lag.
Improved Security
Security is always a major concern for users, and Microsoft could include new security features in Windows 12. One possibility is the inclusion of Windows Hello, which is a biometric authentication system that allows users to log in using facial recognition or a fingerprint. This could be expanded to include more biometric options, such as iris recognition or voice recognition.
Another potential improvement could be the inclusion of a built-in antivirus solution, similar to what is currently available in Windows Defender in Windows 10. This would provide users with an additional layer of protection against viruses and malware.
Improved Cortana
Cortana is Microsoft’s virtual assistant, and it has been available in Windows since Windows 10. However, it has not been as popular as other virtual assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant. Microsoft could improve Cortana in Windows 12 by making it more user-friendly and intuitive.
One potential improvement could be the
