Analysis ⏱ 8 min read

Windows 12 Expected Features: The Complete Wishlist vs What's Actually Confirmed

We separate genuine leaked features from wishful thinking, organizing everything into Confirmed, Likely, and Wishful categories.

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· · Updated May 28, 2025

We've sorted every commonly cited "Windows 12 feature" into Confirmed, Likely, and Wishful Thinking categories.

Confirmed (Multiple Sources)

  • Modular kernel architecture — corroborated by partner-network sources
  • 40+ TOPS NPU requirement — consistent with existing Copilot+ specs
  • Fluent UI 3 with Living Mica — described in leaked design documents
  • Repositionable taskbar — found in Canary build configs
  • Rebuilt AI Recall — confirmed response to 2024 backlash

Likely

  • Vertical taskbar support
  • Native widget improvements
  • Expanded ARM64 app library

Wishful Thinking (No Evidence)

  • "Native Android apps without WSA"
  • "Free for Windows 7/8 users"
  • "No local account option"

How We Categorize

We require two independent sources, or one source plus strong technical evidence, for "Confirmed" status.

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Jamie Torres

Contributing editor at Win12.info covering Windows platform news, hardware certification, and enterprise technology. Tips welcome via the contact page.