Users noticed an unfamiliar interface during the presentation of the new Microsoft Teams chips. The application window was smaller than the dimensions of the virtual screen, so unfamiliar interface elements were visible in the background.

Prototype

The main feature of Windows 12’s alleged design is a “floating” taskbar with rounded corners. It looks like something similar in macOS where the edges don’t touch the borders of the screen like “hanging in the air”. However, unlike Apple’s operating system, here it runs the entire length of the screen.

New Windows interface / Photo by Microsoft

In addition, you can see new items at the top of the screen. On the left is probably a weather and news widget. In the center – something similar to the search, but with obvious additional elements. In the right corner, you can easily recognize the time, date, battery indicator and WiFi icons that you are familiar with from smartphone interfaces.

Zach Bowden of Windows Central noted that he had already seen this design variant in the prototype stage. He also recreated this design in a graphic editor since the original image was available in low quality.

A presentation of possible Windows 12 design based on images taken from the presentation / Photo by Zach Bowden

It is unclear whether such an interface will be used in the final version of the operating system or if it will be just one of many options the company is considering. However, in August of this year, members of the Windows Insider program reported a floating taskbar appearing on some builds. But then the company mentioned a software bug and removed it.