Microsoft has confirmed Windows 12 will launch October 2026, featuring a redesigned AI-first interface where Copilot becomes the primary way users interact with their PC.
What's New
- Copilot can now control any application on your PC through natural language
- Recall 2.0: AI-searchable timeline of everything you've done (with better privacy)
- Live Captions translate 40 languages in real-time on any video call
- New Start menu with AI-suggested actions based on context
- Cloud PC integration lets you stream your desktop from any device
Hardware Requirements
Windows 12 requires an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for AI features. Most PCs from 2024+ include one. Older PCs can run Windows 12 but without AI capabilities.
This effectively creates a hardware refresh cycle that Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm are eager to capitalize on. The "AI PC" era begins in earnest.
