In a notable departure from its traditional update cycle, Microsoft has confirmed a significant strategy shift for Windows updates. The tech giant officially announced through a blog post that “Windows 11 24H2” will serve as the major feature update for 2024, effectively postponing the anticipated release of Windows 12 until 2025 or beyond.
The shift in strategy was subtly hinted at in the changelog for a recent Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, where Microsoft disclosed its decision to designate “Windows 11, version 24H2” as this year’s annual feature update. Moving forward, Microsoft is committed to delivering one major feature update for Windows 11 annually, with releases scheduled for the second half of each calendar year. This marks a departure from the previous approach of smaller, more frequent “Moments” updates.
The rationale behind this decision likely stems from Microsoft’s concern regarding userbase fragmentation. Despite the introduction of Windows 11, Windows 10 maintains a dominant market share of 66%, while Windows 11 lags behind at 28%. Introducing Windows 12 in 2024 could potentially further fragment the Windows ecosystem, a scenario Microsoft aims to avoid.
As a result, users can anticipate significant AI-powered features and advancements with the Windows 11 24H2 update. While specific details about these AI features are yet to be revealed, Microsoft is expected to unveil more information in the coming months.
However, earlier speculations about concepts such as a redesigned desktop interface with a “floating taskbar,” characteristic of Windows 12, are unlikely to materialize in the near future. A substantial visual overhaul for Windows is not expected before 2025.
In terms of release timing, Windows 11 24H2 builds are slated to reach manufacturers (RTM) in April 2024. General public availability is tentatively projected for sometime between September and October 2024.
Source: Windows Blog
