Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently announced the company is moving past its original focus on software, as envisioned by co-founder Bill Gates. While that approach helped Microsoft become worth over $3 trillion, the company’s future will be built around artificial intelligence, connecting its products, and generally becoming more intelligent.
In recent years, the company has made significant investments in artificial intelligence, including a multi-billion dollar collaboration with OpenAI. As a result, they’ve incorporated OpenAI’s latest technology, like the technology behind ChatGPT, throughout their products, including Windows.
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, recently acknowledged that Microsoft and its CEO, Satya Nadella, played a crucial role in the company’s rise to a $500 billion valuation. Interestingly, Bill Gates, who remains closely involved with Microsoft even while focusing on his philanthropic work, initially cautioned Nadella against making the first $1 billion investment in OpenAI back in 2019, reportedly saying, “You’re going to burn this billion dollars.”
The change has upset many users, and that’s likely a key reason some are determined to continue using Windows 10 even after Microsoft stops supporting it on October 14, 2025. Strict hardware demands and design issues with the new version have also contributed to this resistance.
Microsoft appears to be moving forward with its AI plans, suggesting its next operating system after Windows 11 will be significantly more advanced. According to Pavan Davuluri, a Microsoft leader for Windows, the new OS will offer a seamless and versatile experience powered by AI, fundamentally changing how we use computers.
David Weston, a Microsoft executive, explained that future computer interactions might seem as strange to current users as using MS-DOS feels to younger generations who grew up with modern technology.
I’ve been following the news about Windows, and it sounds like Microsoft is really going all-in on AI! Recently, someone from the company hinted on X (formerly Twitter) that Windows is becoming an ‘agentic OS’ – basically, an operating system that can actually *do* things for you, instead of just waiting for commands. And it looks like they’re serious – they’ve already restructured the Windows team to focus on building this AI-powered future. It’s pretty exciting to think about what Windows could become!
The change has caused significant backlash and anger online. One user complained that the platform is becoming unstable and full of bugs, making it unsuitable for professional use. Another expressed strong disappointment, stating that the already problematic product has been made even worse.
Counter proposal — this Windows 26 concept could be a great starting point for Microsoft
For months, dedicated Windows users have been addressing issues Microsoft hasn’t prioritized. Former Microsoft engineer Dave W. Plummer explained that Windows isn’t fundamentally flawed, but rather tries to accommodate everyone, and hasn’t provided space for users who like to heavily customize and personalize their experience.
A software engineer explained in a nearly 16-minute YouTube video how he would improve Windows with a “pro mode.” He believes this feature would solve many of the frustrations experienced by advanced users.
Concept designer Abdi (known as AR 4789 on YouTube) has created some compelling designs that respond to common user frustrations with Windows, including ideas for Windows 12.2 with a retro feel, and a concept he calls ‘Brilliant’ for Windows 12.
The designer has released a new concept for Windows 26. Like their previous work, it’s showcased in a brief, visually appealing video. This concept focuses on a consistent, user-friendly design throughout the operating system, including a smaller Taskbar that likely can be customized in the settings to improve your workflow.
The Start menu receives a visual refresh with a modern design. While artificial intelligence isn’t heavily featured, it’s used in key areas, such as finding files. This works similarly to the fast, natural language search found on newer Copilot+ PCs, allowing you to locate files almost instantly.
Copilot AI has been upgraded with improved intelligence, allowing it to handle more challenging and even routine tasks, such as customizing your device’s wallpaper.
Windows 26 offers a lot more ways to personalize your experience and features a smoother, more consistent dark mode. Plus, similar to a feature in PowerToys, it can automatically switch between dark and light mode based on the time of day, likely using sunrise and sunset times. Microsoft, can you confirm this?
Although official minimum specs haven’t been stated, this new operating system comes with a powerful device featuring 2TB of storage, 32GB of RAM, and a Snapdragon X Elite chip. What really caught my eye, though, is the stunning Liquid Glass design. It’s a beautiful throwback to the Aero Glass look from Windows Vista – a really nice touch of nostalgia!
This is simply a design concept showing a possible future for Windows, hoping Microsoft might consider these ideas.
FAQ
What is Windows Aero?
Windows Aero was Microsoft’s visually striking interface, first seen in Windows Vista and continuing in Windows 7. It was well-known for its see-through effects and fluid animations.
What does the Windows 26 concept show?
This design brings back the see-through look of Aero, but with a sleek, dark mode, modern interface details, and improved ways to manage windows.
Why is this significant?
Unlike Microsoft’s current focus on an AI-powered operating system with intelligent ‘agents,’ this approach prioritizes appealing visuals and a user experience reminiscent of older, well-loved designs.
Is this official?
No — this is a fan‑made concept design, not an official Microsoft roadmap.
What are Microsoft’s future plans for Windows?
Windows’ next operating system after Windows 11 could be significantly enhanced with artificial intelligence, according to Pavan Davuluri, who leads the Windows team. This shift reflects Microsoft’s focus on developing AI that can act on users’ behalf.
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2025-11-12 18:40