Microsoft is exploring the possibility of introducing a subscription model for its next operating system, Windows 12, following the success of this same type of service in Microsoft 365. Windows is currently sold as a one-time payment software, but rumors suggest a switch to a monthly or annual subscription. Although there is no official confirmation from Microsoft, indications suggest that this change could occur sooner than expected: in 2025, when Windows 12 is released. This was suggested by Intel's executive vice president and chief financial officer, David Zinsner during a Technology Conference this weekend.
The rumor about the possibility of this new paid Windows arose after a file was discovered in the German version of Windows 11, called slmgr.ini, which contains information about a future subscription. Exact details of how it will work are still unclear, but there is speculation that it could offer a basic version of Windows 12 for free, with paid options including access to Microsoft 365 and other benefits such as cloud storage.
It should be noted that Windows already offers paid subscriptions for the professional version of its operating system, aimed mainly at the business sector. However, the version for home users could be the next to adopt this model.
Although Windows 12 is still in development and has not been officially confirmed, it is expected to continue to be a free operating system for users who own Windows licenses.
There is speculation that Windows 12 could introduce changes to the user interface, with a floating taskbar similar to that of macOS, along with improvements to integration with Android devices and new features such as podcast recording and live streaming.
In terms of requirements, Windows 12 is expected to maintain some of the hardware requirements of Windows 11, including the need to have TPM 2.0 enabled. Although Microsoft has not officially confirmed the existence of Windows 12 or its final features, this update is expected to be available at the end of 2024, coinciding with the end of support for Windows 10 and the third year of life of Windows 11.
One of the biggest highlights of Windows 12 could be the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Microsoft has expressed interest in using AI to improve the user experience on Windows. This could include personalized responses based on what is displayed on the screen and hardware optimization for efficient performance and power savings.
This technology could also influence hardware resource allocation, which could affect traditional overclocking of processors. The AI could impose its own values over those selected by users in the BIOS, which could be a significant change in the way system resources are managed. Despite all these speculations, Microsoft has not provided official details about the operating system.
