Microsoft is reportedly working on a new project, codenamed “Windows CorePC,” that aims to modernize the Windows operating system. The project incorporates ideas from previous Microsoft products, including Windows Core OS and Windows 10X. Windows CorePC will put modularity at the center of the system, allowing for flexible optimization for various physical form factors of devices and adjusting the set of applications and functions based on the needs of a particular product. Unlike previous attempts, CorePC will support legacy Win32 applications and be installed on several physical disk partitions at once, with some sections read-only to prevent unauthorized changes to critical system components. This approach will enable faster updates that require fewer computer restarts to make changes.
One major difference between CorePC and previous Windows versions is the integration of artificial intelligence technologies. Windows will be able to analyze displayed content and provide contextual prompts to quickly launch applications based on the information being viewed. Additionally, Windows will be able to identify objects and text in images and allow users to cut and paste these elements to another location without using image editors. Some AI functions will require special hardware, but they will not weigh down other editions of Windows that do not require support for unnecessary hardware.
The modular approach of CorePC will allow Microsoft to produce ultra-light editions of Windows for use on cheap ARM tablets or netbooks, effectively competing with Google’s Chromebooks. While CorePC may change before its official release, the direction of development towards modularity and AI integration is clear. Microsoft’s latest attempt to modernize Windows may be the one that finally succeeds in simplifying system updates, improving application stability, and increasing security while maintaining compatibility and convenience.