Windows 12 — Release Date, Requirements & Price: Everything We Know [2026]

Windows 12 is one of the hottest topics in the tech world. While Microsoft has not officially confirmed the name of their next operating system, leaks, patents, and employee statements paint an increasingly clear picture of what we can expect. In this comprehensive guide, we gather all confirmed information, credible leaks, and expert predictions about the successor to Windows 11.

This article is regularly updated — last update: April 2026.

Windows 12 — What Do We Know for Sure?

Let us start with facts that are confirmed or highly credible based on official Microsoft sources, source code leaks, and reliable industry insiders.

Microsoft has not officially confirmed the name

As of April 2026, Microsoft has not issued any official statement confirming the existence of a product called "Windows 12." The company consistently declines to comment on future OS versions, limiting itself to information about current Windows 11 updates.

However, internal documents leaked in 2023 during the FTC vs. Microsoft case (related to the Activision Blizzard acquisition) revealed plans for a new Windows version. The documents featured codenames "Next Valley" and "Hudson Valley", which industry experts unanimously interpret as the next major version of the system.

Windows 11 continues to receive major updates

Alongside development of the new system, Microsoft continues to evolve Windows 11:

• Windows 11 24H2 (released fall 2024) — introduced the first version of Recall, Copilot+ PC, and improved HDR support
• Windows 11 25H2 (expected fall 2025/spring 2026) — Copilot improvements, new encrypted Windows Recall, performance optimizations
• Regular monthly security updates and quality patches

Source code leaks and screenshots

Several significant leaks appeared in 2024-2025:

• New File Explorer interface with browser-like tabs and a file gallery
• Modular installer allowing component selection (no pre-installed apps)
• Floating taskbar with rounded corners and glass effects
• Copilot panel integrated directly into the system shell, not as a separate app
• New login screen with animated backgrounds and quick Copilot access

When Will Windows 12 Be Released?

Scenario 1: Q4 2026 or Q1 2027 (most likely)

Microsoft historical release cycle suggests a 3-year gap between major versions:

• Windows 10 — July 2015
• Windows 11 — October 2021
• Windows 12 — logically: late 2026 to early 2027

Reports from internal Microsoft sources consistently point to the second half of 2026 as the target date. Analysts from Gartner and IDC confirm this forecast.

Scenario 2: Windows as a Service

An alternative theory suggests Microsoft may abandon version numbering entirely and move to continuous updates — similar to macOS. In this scenario, "Windows 12" would never officially exist, and Windows 11 would evolve through successive major updates.

Windows 12 — Expected New Features

Copilot AI as the central element

The biggest change in Windows 12 will be deep AI integration. While in Windows 11 Copilot is an additional app, in Windows 12 it will become a fundamental part of the OS:

• System shell Copilot — available from any UI element, no separate window needed
• Intelligent search — understands context ("find the presentation I worked on last week")
• Task automation — execute sequences of actions on your computer
• Local AI processing — many AI features work offline via NPU

Modular design — CorePC

One of the most interesting architecture changes is CorePC:

• Minimal system core takes significantly less disk space (~20 GB vs 64+ GB)
• Optional components — do not need Paint or Xbox Game Bar? Not installed by default
• Smaller, faster updates — only changed modules are updated
• Better compatibility — modularity makes it easier to adapt for various devices

Cloud PC integration

• Seamless switching between local desktop and Cloud PC
• Automatic synchronization of files, settings, and app sessions
• Cloud Gaming — run demanding games on weaker hardware

New user interface

• Floating taskbar — similar to macOS Dock
• Rounded corners 2.0 — more glass effects (Mica 2.0)
• Interactive desktop widgets
• Improved snap layouts with AI-based suggestions

Gaming improvements

• DirectStorage 2.0 — even faster game loading
• Auto HDR 2.0 — improved tone mapping for older games
• Game Mode AI — intelligent resource management during gaming

Windows 12 System Requirements — Predictions

How Much Will Windows 12 Cost?

Official Microsoft pricing (forecast)

• Windows 12 Home: estimated EUR 145-159 (similar to Win 11)
• Windows 12 Pro: estimated EUR 199-259

Prices at KluczeSoft — much cheaper

At KluczeSoft we offer original license keys at wholesale prices. After Windows 12 launch, we expect prices from ~EUR 49-69.

Currently available licenses:

Will Windows 12 be free for Windows 11 users?

Very likely. Microsoft used this strategy for the Windows 10 to 11 transition — the upgrade was free for the first year. We expect the same approach for Windows 12.

Should You Wait for Windows 12?

If you have Windows 10 — DO NOT WAIT

If you have Windows 11 — wait comfortably

Your system is secure and fully supported. Windows 11 will receive updates until at least 2031. You can safely wait for Windows 12 and take advantage of the free upgrade.

If buying a new computer — buy with Windows 11

Do not wait to buy hardware. Get a PC with Windows 11 Pro now, making sure it has a processor with NPU (Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen AI). The upgrade to Windows 12 will likely be free.

FAQ

When will Windows 12 be released?

Most likely Q4 2026 or Q1 2027. Microsoft has not announced an official date yet.

Will Windows 12 be free?

For Windows 11 users with compatible hardware — probably yes, for the first year after launch.

How much will Windows 12 cost?

Official Microsoft price estimated at EUR 145-259 depending on edition. At KluczeSoft, prices will be much lower — estimated from ~EUR 49-69.

Will my computer run Windows 12?

If it meets Windows 11 requirements, probably yes in basic mode. For full AI features you need a processor with NPU, minimum 8 GB RAM, and an SSD.

What is NPU and do I need it?

NPU (Neural Processing Unit) is a dedicated AI chip built into modern processors. You need it for advanced AI features in Windows 12. Without NPU, the system will work but AI features will be cloud-dependent.

Should I buy Windows 11 now or wait?

If you have Windows 10 — buy Windows 11 immediately. Support has ended. If you already have Windows 11 — wait for the free upgrade.