this post was submitted on 06 Oct 2023
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Can anyone confirm that my understanding of the source article is correct?
The "Windows 12 may require a subscription" is coming from the fact that the word "Subscription" exists in a Windows config file somewhere?
That seems like a pretty big leap to me. Not that I don't think it's impossible that Microsoft would do this, but the evidence here seems thin to say the least.
It looks like they will add a subscription edition, doesn't necessarily mean current editions will go away. If they don't offer free upgrade again, for a lot of people they will need to decide to either buy a full license or roll a subscription.
There is not a lot known here tho, will Windows be part of the existing 365 subscription? Will OEMs offer a full license any more? Or will it be a trial before adding a sub or license.
No one knows
I think the most likely outcome is that this is somehow integrating an o365 or m365 style subscription into windows, carving out "pro" features into the subscription. Either power-user features, or org management features like Ad-joining and management. Maybe subscription versions of Windows that only work with m365 managed accounts, and don't actually support local accounts.
It could replace professional edition, maybe it will be an alternative product SKU, but that seems like the most Microsoft thing that those config strings could mean.
It's more likely to be some sort of license for companies than anything else. I'd be impressed if they actually think the average windows user would pay for it.