
AI-first Windows 12 could prompt hardware upgrades in 2026
Rumors suggest Windows 12 could arrive in late 2026 as an AI-centric OS that may require CPUs with dedicated neural processing units (NPUs) and high performance (around 40 TOPS), potentially forcing hardware upgrades and possibly introducing subscription pricing. The codename Hudson Valley Next and a modular CorePC architecture are cited, with broader Copilot enhancements including Gaming Copilot; a free Home upgrade is hinted at, but details remain to be confirmed.

