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 recently spotted subscription version, 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, a dedicated business service, available to regular consumers. 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 customers for its operating system, while Google and Apple offer theirs for 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 core of Windows and its core components will never require a subscription.
George is still wondering what he is doing here….
