Microsoft is believed to have showcased the next major version of Windows with a user interface that includes a floating Taskbar alongside a translucent information bar at the top of a display.
According to Zac Bowden of Windows Central (opens in a new tab), the next major release of Windows is ''Next Valley,'' which is continuing the Valley naming convention that began with Windows 11.
During a demonstration at Ignite 2022 (opens in a new tab), a picture was shown where the aim of this design is supposedly to improve the appearance of different devices, such as tablets and mice peripherals.
Although Bowden claims that no code has been approved for the next major release, we wonder if we''ll see something more final in 2023.
Turning it up to 12?
In desktop pic.twitter.com/6n8EHjdCybOctober 12, 2022, a curved ignite mockup
I''ve previously discussed topics I''d like to see in Windows 12, such as the return of MSN Messenger and a dedicated podcast app, but since we''re already seeing concept stages of the next major release, it might imply a whole lot of evolution.
When you''re in certain apps, such as Microsoft''s Designer app and even Paint, then seeing a floating Taskbar makes sense, but if this is for Windows 12, let''s see it go further.
It would be a surprise to see the next major version released in late 2023, followed by a release for Insiders starting in 2024.
There''s pressure on Microsoft to do something similar with Windows, which is accessible to millions of devices the company isn''t responsible for. However, it''s not realistic to see a major update every year, which is why these ''Moment'' updates make more sense.
It''s a good idea to imagine 2024 as a date for Windows 12 to arrive, but whether or not the taskbar will include it is also a concern.