Here’s what’s going on: A creative concept designer recently uploaded a video that offers a fresh vision of how Microsoft’s Windows 12 could potentially look and feel once it’s launched in the future. This next-generation operating system is expected to feature a revamped design and improved user experience, showcasing elements like a centered taskbar and Start menu. Dubbed “Windows 12,” it comes with a feature called Windows AI, which allows text and image inputs, aiming to streamline the user experience.
Microsoft released Windows 11 to the public over three years ago. Despite this, they’ve found it challenging to boost the number of users transitioning to this newer system, even with the looming end of Windows 10 set for October 14, 2025. The company has tried various tactics to entice users to upgrade, such as full-screen pop-ups and promoting the OS as a gateway for news, celebrity updates, stocks, and weather.
Although Microsoft remains largely secretive about what’s next after Windows 11—likely the anticipated Windows 12—some leaks have surfaced. Our Senior Editor Zac Bowden provides a comprehensive report on the details we’ve unearthed about Windows 12.
In a particularly intriguing move, a designer by the name of Nepnus dropped a short visual piece imagining what Windows 12 might entail, as shared on Beta News. The video retains some parts reminiscent of Windows 11 but introduces a refined user interface and design language, including a centered taskbar with rounded edges.
An interesting parallel is Microsoft’s push for AI elements in Windows 11, which appears well represented in Nepnus’ vision, labeled as Windows AI. This concept, highlighted in the demo, supports both imagery and text inputs, boosting user interaction. It seems Nepnus may be onto something promising.
Back in November, “Windows Intelligence” began making waves in build updates for Windows 11. This suggests Microsoft could be plotting a rebranding of its AI-driven features from Windows 11—like Windows Recall, Live Captions, and Windows Studio Effects—under this new name.
The concept video illustrates a small floating bar at the top devoted to Start and Search functions. Meanwhile, the Start menu itself is centralized, appearing more streamlined and user-friendly. Although the video doesn’t clarify whether customization options will be available, this would certainly be a welcomed feature. The concept also envisions the use of floating widgets and revamped settings for easier navigation and tweaks.
Though the concept video is brief, it addresses some major concerns users have had with prior versions of Windows. It’s clear that generative AI capabilities will remain central to Windows’ evolution.
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