So you’re wondering what is latest version of windows here in 2025. It feels like just yesterday we were all getting used to the centered taskbar in Windows 11. But time moves on and so does Microsoft.
The short answer is we’ve moved past Windows 11. The new big thing from Microsoft is what most people are calling Windows 12, even if the official name is a bit more marketing-friendly. It’s the operating system that is now shipping on new PCs. It’s also the big update that has been rolling out to existing computers.
This isn’t just a minor update with a few new icons. Microsoft really changed some things under the hood this time. They seem to be pushing hard into a future that’s all about AI and the cloud. For some people it’s a great change. For others, well, it’s taking some getting used to. Let’s get into what this new Windows is all about.
What is This New Windows Version Called Anyway?
So, is it officially “Windows 12”? Not exactly. Microsoft is doing that thing they do sometimes where the branding is a little fuzzy. Most new computers just say they come with “Windows.” Some marketing stuff calls it the “Windows 2025 Edition.”
But for all intents and purposes, the community and tech press have settled on calling it Windows 12. It’s the logical next step from Windows 11, and it’s a lot easier to say. So for the rest of this post, we’ll just call it Windows 12.
The main idea with this version was to build an operating system from the ground up for an era where AI is everywhere. And for a world where your files might not even be on your computer anymore. It’s a different way of thinking about a desktop OS.
The Big Changes You’ll Actually Notice
When you first boot up Windows 12, it looks familiar but also… different. The design is cleaner, maybe a bit more like a mobile OS in some ways. But the real changes are in how it works. These are the things that will probably jump out at you pretty fast.
A Way Smarter AI Helper
The Copilot AI assistant from Windows 11 is still here, but it’s been given a serious promotion. It’s not just a sidebar anymore. The AI is woven into the whole system.
When you search for a file, the AI helps you find it based on what the file is about, not just its name. You can type “that presentation I made about sales in Q3” and it will generally find it.
It helps write emails directly in Outlook, it can summarize web pages right in the browser. It even suggests how to organize your open windows for what you’re doing.
There’s also some stuff that feels a little weird, like the AI can create images for your desktop background based on a simple description. Which is neat, I guess.
A More Flexible, Modular Feel
This part is a bit more technical but it’s a big deal. Windows 12 is considered to be more modular. What that basically means is the core operating system is separate from a lot of the features. It’s a concept they have been working on for a while.
This should make updates smaller and faster. It also means Microsoft can add or remove big features without messing up the whole system. For you, it might mean your computer feels a bit quicker because it’s not loaded with stuff you don’t use. They are trying to make it a lighter base install.
Cloud and Gaming Got Some Love
Microsoft is really pushing for you to save your stuff to OneDrive. The integration is deeper than ever. The File Explorer now has a “Home” view that mixes your local files and your cloud files together. It’s a bit confusing at first. But the idea is that it doesn’t matter where your file is, you can just get to it.
For gamers, there are some nice improvements.
DirectStorage technology is more widespread, so games with the right hardware load super fast.
The Xbox app and Game Bar are much better now. They feel less like an afterthought and more like a real part of Windows.
There’s an auto HDR feature that makes older games look better on modern screens which is a nice touch.
Should You Upgrade to the Latest Windows Version?
So, the big question is, should you jump on the Windows 12 train? It kind of depends. If you’re buying a new PC in 2025, you probably won’t have a choice. It will come with the latest version of Windows installed. The choice is for people with older machines.
The upgrade is generally free for most Windows 11 users, which is good. But the system requirements are a little stricter this time around. You’ll need a fairly modern processor. And the requirement for a TPM 2.0 security chip is still there, just like with Windows 11. Some older PCs just won’t be able to run it, period.
If your computer can run it, it comes down to personal preference. If you’re excited by all the AI stuff and want the best performance for new games, then go for it. If you’re happy with Windows 11 and don’t want to learn a new layout you can probably wait a while. Windows 11 will still be supported for a few more years.
How Does It Stack Up Against Windows 11?
It is the direct comparison that a lot of people are asking about. Windows 11 laid a lot of the visual groundwork. Windows 12 built on that and then changed the engine underneath.
Think of it like this: Windows 11 was the fancy new body kit for the car. Windows 12 is that same car but with a brand new hybrid engine dropped into it. It runs differently, and it’s more efficient in some ways, but it also has new quirks.
The Start Menu has been changed again, it’s a bit simpler. The taskbar has more customization options which people were asking for. But some old Control Panel features are now gone for good, completely replaced by the Settings app. Some people will miss those old menus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. So what is the latest version of Windows in 2025?
The newest version being shipped on PCs is commonly referred to as Windows 12, though Microsoft’s official branding may just be “Windows.” It’s the successor to Windows 11.
2. Is the new Windows a free upgrade?
For most users with a legitimate copy of Windows 11 and a compatible computer, the upgrade to the new version is free. There might be some exceptions, but typically it is.
3. What are the system requirements for the latest Windows version?
They are a bit higher than Windows 11. You’ll need a modern CPU (generally from 2020 or newer), at least 8GB of RAM, and security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot enabled.
4. Can I still keep using Windows 11?
Yes, absolutely. Microsoft will continue to support Windows 11 with security updates for several more years. You are not forced to upgrade immediately if your machine is running fine.
5. Is Windows 12 better than Windows 11 for gaming?
Generally, yes. With better DirectStorage support and a more refined Xbox Game Bar integration, new games tend to run a little better on the latest version of Windows, provided you have the hardware.
Key Takeaways
The latest version of Windows in 2025 is the successor to Windows 11, which everyone is calling Windows 12.
Its main new direction is a deep integration of AI features throughout the entire operating system.
The system is more modular, which should lead to better stability and smaller updates in the long run.
System requirements are stricter, so not all Windows 11 machines will be able to make the jump.
Windows 11 remains a perfectly good option and will be supported for years to come, so there’s no immediate rush to upgrade if you’re happy with what you have.
