New AI PCs to Get Next-Gen Windows Version in Mid-2024—Alleged Windows 12 Coming?

In an earnings call for Qualcomm, CEO Cristiano Amon dropped a significant revelation about Microsoft's upcoming version of Windows, expected to grace our screens in the middle of 2024.

Amon linked this timeframe to the release of the Snapdragon X Elite chip, the powerhouse behind Microsoft's anticipated AI-powered laptops.

Snapdragon X Elite Chip: Paving the Way for AI-Powered Laptops

With the surge of AI-powered laptops, there's no doubt that they could bring out the best software of the future—and having a more powerful Windows version is no exception.

"We're tracking to the launch of products with this chipset [Snapdragon X Elite] tied with the next version of Microsoft Windows that has a lot of the Windows AI capabilities ... We're still maintaining the same date, which is driven by Windows, which is mid-2024, getting ready for back-to-school," Amon said in a report by The Register.

The mid-2024 release date aligns with the launch of laptops fueled by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chip, bringing AI capabilities to the forefront of Microsoft's computing strategy. If this is true, we are seeing the next-gen version of Windows OS anytime soon.

Decoding Windows 12 or Windows 11 24H2

The ongoing speculation regarding the nomenclature of Microsoft's next desktop operating system adds a layer of mystery to the anticipation. The question boils down to what specific name will it have between Windows 12 or Windows 11 24H2.

While the answer remains elusive, current indicators point towards Windows 11 24H2. However, the possibility of Windows 12 emerging in 2025 cannot be ruled out entirely.

Germanium Enters Windows Architecture

Despite the confusion surrounding the version name, a major change in Windows architecture is imminent with the introduction of Germanium. This underlying platform is set to enhance performance and security, laying the foundation for the future of Windows, according to TechRadar. The arrival of Germanium signifies a departure from mere updates, promising a fresh Windows experience for users.

Snapdragon X Elite-Powered Laptops: The Real Innovation in 2024

When Amon references Snapdragon X Elite-powered laptops arriving in mid-2024 with the next version of Windows, the focal point is the integration of Germanium. This platform represents a significant leap in the capabilities of AI PCs, offering enhanced performance and security features.

Rollout Plans: New Laptops First, Existing Windows 11 PCs Later

The rollout strategy for the new Windows involves a staggered approach. New laptops, designated as AI PCs, are expected to debut with the Germanium-powered Windows in July, according to grapevine buzz. However, existing Windows 11 PCs may need to wait until September for the upgrade. This phased release aims to prioritize the latest technology for new users while ensuring a subsequent upgrade for existing Windows 11 users later in the year.

Microsoft's mid-2024 revelation unveils not just a new version of Windows but a groundbreaking platform—Germanium—that sets the stage for the future of AI-powered computing. The collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chip hints that Microsoft continues to evolve and adapt to the latest tech changes—most notably with AI.