On October 5 we reported that Microsoft is preparing to release the next generation of Windows a subscription-based operating system.
But Windows Central has published a new report, debunking rumors of an upcoming Windows “12” subscription. According to their information, the discovered code is not related to the next version of Windows, which is expected in the second half of 2024. The code refers to a subscription version that was found recently, Windows 11 IoT Enterprise.
However, we should expect Microsoft to lock some parts of Windows behind some kind of subscription.
For example, the company plans to make Windows 365 available to regular consumers, an exclusive service for businesses. This will allow stakeholders to use Windows computers located in the cloud for their day-to-day needs. So it shouldn't surprise us if we see more references to new subscriptions within Windows code. However, the main course, Windows “12”, will remain a product that will have to be paid for once.
Microsoft doesn't want to be the only company that makes its operating system available using subscriptions.
Today it is the only company that charges its customers for its operating system, while Google and Apple offer theirs free, technically at least.
It would be very difficult for Microsoft to explain to the average consumer why they have to pay every month to use Windows. THE report from Windows Central claims that the main part of Windows and the basics data they will never require any assistance.
