The next version of Microsoft’s operating system, expected to launch within the next one to two years, is projected to introduce a fundamental shift in how users interact with their computers.

Windows 12 is being developed with integrated artificial intelligence designed to make the system contextually aware of its surroundings and user activity.

Unlike traditional systems where AI functions as a separate application, the upcoming Windows platform will embed AI directly into the operating system itself.

The goal is to enable the computer to understand what the user is doing—whether writing a document, editing an image, or engaging in a video call—and proactively offer assistance.

This approach aligns with the concept of 'ambient computing,' first introduced by Google in 2019, where technology is seamlessly embedded into the user's environment.

A key feature of Windows 12 will be its multimodal interaction capabilities, with a particular emphasis on voice input.

The system is expected to interpret natural language commands alongside traditional inputs such as keyboard and mouse.

Microsoft envisions a user interface where voice becomes a primary method of interaction, alongside typing and touch, allowing users to communicate more intuitively with their devices.

According to available reports, this shift will not only affect how users interact with their devices but will also result in substantial visual changes to the Windows interface.

AI agents embedded within the system will not only respond to user commands but also take initiative to streamline tasks and enhance productivity.

To support these functionalities, Windows 12 will use a hybrid processing model, combining on-device computing with cloud-based AI services.

This integration is intended to ensure smooth performance and responsiveness.

Microsoft is not alone in this direction; competitors such as Apple are reportedly working on similar voice navigation and control features for their own operating systems.

However, the inclusion of pervasive AI capabilities has prompted significant concerns over user privacy.

A system that continuously 'listens' and 'watches' to understand context inherently requires access to large volumes of personal and sensitive data.

The reliance on both local and cloud processing intensifies the debate over how such data will be collected, stored, and used.

Privacy advocates and regulatory bodies are expected to demand greater transparency and stricter oversight over data usage.

Past criticism directed at Microsoft over privacy lapses in earlier features—such as Recall in Copilot+ and search history tracking in Windows 10 and 11—underscores the importance of including robust user controls.

These would ideally allow users to manage what data is shared or withheld from the system’s AI components.