Windows 12 could arrive this year with rumored heavy AI focus — and the hate is strong already

• Windows 12 could debut later in 2026, PC World suggests
• That's based on leaks and statements from hardware partners, we're told
• The site rounds up a bunch of further rumors about a heavy AI focus, and subscription elements therein — which has provoked a very negative reaction

Windows 12 could be here later this year, and Microsoft might focus heavily on AI — and specifically subscription elements therein — with the next-gen OS, where an NPU is likely to be an even more crucial element.

PC World has furnished us with what's essentially a roundup of existing rumors about Windows 12 — if indeed that is the name of the OS, and we're far from sure of that — sprinkled with a few nuggets of new info.

In terms of the latter, the main contention is that a "broad release in the course of 2026" is ...