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Windows 13 
(codenamed Palisade) was the thirteenth major release of Windows. Windows 13 was intended to be a total revamp of Windows itself. Windows 13 had an all-new kernel called the Quantum Kernel intended to prepare Windows for quantum machines and to be used as a universal kernel, allowing Windows to run on any device. Additionally, it abandoned the "Windows as a Service" model, which led Microsoft to revert to releasing a new version of Windows every 3-5 years.
Windows 13 initially had an overwhelmingly positive reception. Many praised its fast loading time, stability, and various new features.
New features and changes[]
- A redesigned UI based on Fusion Design Language
- An all new setup experience that has been redesigned from the ground up
- All legacy systems have either been revamped or removed due to the all-new kernel.
- "About Windows" now informs the user of the amount of system RAM, returning a feature not seen since Windows 7 build 6519.
- Many new apps have been added, while legacy apps have either been rewritten or revamped.
- Many new widgets have been added to make widgets more multipurpose.
- File Explorer has been heavily updated to become more efficient.
- HFD (High-Efficacy Drive) is a new file system that uses up much less of the drive and allows faster performance in an SSD. It replaces NTFS.
History and Development[]
The idea of replacing the aging NT kernel began circulating as early as the launch of Windows 12 in 2025. Windows 12 highlighted the limitations of the NT architecture, revealing that future Windows releases would require one of two paths forward:
- A complete rewrite of the NT kernel to modernize and futureproof it — this initiative became known as Project QNT.
- A full replacement of the NT kernel with a brand-new, long-term architecture — this became Project Uranium.
Uranium progressed significantly faster than QNT, with weekly build rollouts, while QNT released its first and only build nearly five months after Uranium's initial release. This disparity was likely due to Uranium's more experienced development team, compared to the largely rookie team behind QNT.
In early 2028, both projects were merged into a unified effort called Project Palisade, aimed at developing the next major version of Windows. This merger occurred roughly one month before the unveiling of Windows 13.
Some developers from QNT were dissatisfied with the merger and attempted to launch a competing operating system known as PhoenixOS. The project was poorly received and quickly discontinued following a successful lawsuit by Microsoft.
In July 2029, Project Palisade was officially unveiled at a Microsoft event. At this stage, Palisade was still in early development and primarily served to showcase the new Quantum Kernel. Microsoft announced that Insider Preview builds would begin rolling out in the summer of 2029.
Windows 13 would go on to have the longest development cycle in Insider Program history, with over 18 Insider builds released across a 10-month period.
Builds[]
Build 32921.1000 (14-06-2029)[]
The ISO was leaked but was quickly taken down the following day. Microsoft later filed a DMCA claim against the original leaker for unauthorized distribution of the software. This build represents the first known pre-alpha version.
Build 33007.1000 (23-06-2029)[]
Not much is known about this build, as it remains unleaked. It includes the Microsoft Confidential watermark found in early Windows 8 builds, which remained in place until build 29018, where it was removed. The watermark was possibly left intact due to oversight."
Build 33014.1000 (03-07-2029)[]
This build introduces several notable changes to the system’s file structure and browser configuration:
- The 3D Objects folder has been removed from File Explorer, marking the end of its presence in default user profiles.
- The Offline Web Pages folder is now hidden by default, streamlining the user directory layout.
- Uniquely, this build includes the legacy (pre-Chromium) version of Microsoft Edge, diverging from the Chromium-based Edge that had become standard in earlier builds.
Build 33052.1000 (14-07-2029)[]
This build replaced the "Windows 12" branding with Windows 13 Insider Preview on both the desktop watermark and the winver dialog. It is the last build released before Windows 13 became available to Windows Insiders through the Insider Preview program.
Build 33057.1000 (15-07-2029)[]
This is the first build released through the Windows Insider Program, although earlier builds are known to have existed internally. This build changes the version string to 29H2. It would later be updated to 30H2 in.... nevermind
Build 33100.1000 (07-25-2029)[]
This is the first build to introduce new features and significant system changes. Notably, it is the first build to drop support for 32-bit applications. Attempting to launch a 32-bit app results in the error message: 32-BIT-END-OF-SUPPORT.
This build includes the following features:
- A beta version of EdgeQ, a revamped successor to Microsoft Edge.
- A redesigned setup experience that is shorter and faster, featuring an all-new boot sequence with the updated Windows logo.
- A completely overhauled user interface based on the new Fusion design language.
- A new default wallpaper, showcasing an abstract, dark-toned illustration of a construction site with the text "under CONSTRUCTION".
This is the final build in the pre-alpha development phase.
Build 33200.1000 (04-08-2029)[]
This is the third build in the development cycle and the first to include ISO support. Upon startup, the system displays the following warning:
"This build is a preview of the next generation of Windows. Do not use this as your primary OS; otherwise, you may encounter errors that prevent crucial actions, which may cause the system to crash. It's strongly advised to use as a VM in any case."
This build introduces several new features and marks the beginning of the alpha phase.
New Features[]
- Introduction of Neutron, a free photo editor that supports up to 8K resolution and allows importing files from Photoshop and GIMP. As of this build, Neutron is mostly complete, although rendering 8K images may cause the system to crash.
- A redesigned Microsoft Store built using the Fusion design language.
Build 33215.1025 (06-08-2029)[]
This build was released as an update to address a critical bug that could cause system crashes on AMD CPUs. It is also notable for removing the Microsoft Confidential watermark from the desktop. However, the version and build number watermark remain visible.
Build 33220.1000 (14-08-2029)[]
This is the fourth build released through the Windows Insider Program. It includes several critical system fixes aimed at improving overall stability and performance. Additionally, it introduces a few minor enhancements to the user experience and interface.
Build 33225.1000 (02-09-2029)[]
This is the fifth build released in the development cycle. EdgeQ is nearly finalized in this version, showcasing improved performance and UI refinements. A Microsoft account is now required to set up all editions of Windows, marking a shift toward tighter integration with cloud services.
Enterprise users can expect significant enhancements in future builds. This is the final build in the Alpha phase.
Build 33301.1000 (09-09-2029)[]
This is the sixth build in the development cycle. It was released shortly before Microsoft Ignite 2029 and primarily includes bug fixes. This build marks the beginning of the Beta phase.
Build 33600.1000 (02-10-2029)[]
The seventh build introduces the Legacy Fluent design layer, although it is not yet functional. Desktop widgets received a major update, improving customization and performance.
Build 38000.1 (12-10-2029)[]
This is the eighth build released to the Canary Channel . It includes numerous bug fixes and serves as a preparatory release for an upcoming branch switch in the development cycle.
Build 38000.159 (16-10-2029)[]
This is the final Insider build released under the rs_prerelease branch.
Build 38000.278 (07-11-2029).[]
The tenth build is to be launched on the program. It is also the first build in branch Kr_Release, which was the phase that would lead to the final release. It has a new theme called "Legacy Fluent," which is one of the themes of Windows 11 and 12. The string number has been changed to "30H2." Desktop widgets received a huge redesign to follow Fusion.
Build 38000.301 (15-11-2029).[]
The Start Menu has received a total overhaul to follow Fusion. The Chats app has been updated with some major features. Task Manager has also been overhauled to follow Fusion and use much less RAM than before. on 2-1 PCs. Dual-Screen Desktops are now possible, each acting toward their own goal or purpose, allowing users to focus easier and quicker.
Build 38000.371 (22-11-2029).[]
The log-in screen has undergone a total redesign, allowing users to customize it. However, they see fit to add useful widgets and much more. Windows Hello has been updated to be easier to set up than ever before. Passkeys have also been added to MacOS.
Build 38000.401 (04-12-2029).[]
EdgeQ is finished at this point. While Neutron has become an app to download from either the store or the website of Microsoft, it also comes with 128-Visual, a program that allows you to program in 128-bit, mostly for experimental purposes.
Build 38000.726 (07-12-2029).[]
At this point, Insider Builds would stop for one month as Microsoft launched updates for Windows 12.1 and Windows Infinity. Also, the year was ending at this point.
Build 38000.941 (07-01-2030).[]
After a month of paused development, builds started to roll out once more. This build had nearly everything done at this point. It was the first build to require 1440p or 4K as a default resolution for Home and Pro SKUs. Enterprise would also require it starting with the following build. SE would never have this requirement due to criticism from schools.
Build 38000.1052 (12-01-2030).[]
At this point, new features were rolling out less and updates were mostly stability-focused to get ready for the final release. which was now planned for April. Media Player 13.0 is shipped with this build rather than 12.0 as with Windows 12. Windows 13 branding was also included starting with this build instead of Windows "Dev" branding. This is the last beta version.
Build 38000.1129 (22-01-2030).[]
This build was essentially the final product by this point. Besides the fact that it had a lot of bugs left to fix, and the branding was still "Version Dev" in some places. though the final branding of Version "30H2" is mostly common by this point. Microsoft stated the reason development had taken so long was because of the new kernel and the need to import everything from NT to Quantum. also due to the fact that this was a massive update to Windows, thus requiring a lot more time to be finished. It's the last build to be launched only on the Dev Channel. This is the first feature complete version.
Build 38000.1146 (29-01-2030).[]
Windows 13 was announced on the Windows Channel and social media. It also formally got its final name, Windows 13. (Although Windows 13 was mentioned in the system by this point in some places.) Beta Channel Insiders would receive cumulative updates for this build until the general availability of Windows 13. It had all the major features and many bugs fixed to ensure a more stable experience.
Build 38000.1150 (04-02-2031)[]
a cumulative update with minor fixes for Windows 13. This build was released to the Release Preview Channel. and for OEMs to begin testing.
Build 38000.1151 (12-02-2030).[]
a cumulative update with minor fixes for Windows 13. This is the release candidate.
Build 38000.1152 (13-02-2030)[]
This build was only released in the fbl_woa (ARM32) branch. Opening any x86 or ARM32 apps will result in a bugcheck instead of a prompt that the app can't be opened.
Build 38000.1153 (13-02-2030)[]
This build was accidentally released in x86 and x64 architectures to public, 2 years later, the checked/debug version was leaked.
This is the last feature complete version and the stable release.
Build 38000.1156 (14-02-2030)[]
Official Release Preview of Windows 13. This build was the RTM build of Windows 13 on ARM64 architecture. Other architectures of build was shared to everyone to try out the system. 5 hours later an ARM32 compile of the build released with a branch of "fbl_woa". This is the Release to Manufacturing.
Differences between ARM64/32 and other architectures:
- ARM64/32 has no timebomb, unlike the other ones.
- In winver, there is displayed "Windows 13 Preview" text instead of Windows 13 logo found in ARM64/32 build.
- Most people call this build the RTM of ARM32 since no later builds were compiled in ARM32.
Build 38000.1160 (15-02-2030).[]
General Availability build version for OEMs to ship with. This marks the end of the development of Windows 13. It would take two months, however, before consumers could get their hands on this build.
Post-release updates[]
Build 38950.1 (08-15-2031)[]
Beta build leading up to the Palladium semester. Introduced early versions of Neutron 2.0, a redesigned Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), and partial UI revamps in legacy areas. Some features were incomplete or hidden behind experimental flags.
Build 39000.10 (10-23-2031) (Palladium)[]
31H2 feature update. It further revamps more legacy areas around the system, adds Neutron 2.0, and updates the OOBE. This is the Release to the Web.
Build 39050.1 (07-20-2032)[]
Beta build leading up to the Cadmium semester. Introduced early support for 8K video playback and the first test builds of Media Player 4.0. The new bootscreen was present but not finalized.
Build 39100.10 (10-9-2032) (Cadmium)[]
32H2 feature update. The first major update to Windows 13. Media Player 4.0 was shipped with this update, allowing the viewing of 8K videos. Further system areas have been updated to support 8K. Many apps have been updated further. This update also implemented a new, more elegant and futuristic bootscreen.
Build 39102.10 (10-05-2033) (Yttrium)[]
33H2 cumulative update for 32H2. It has a few features that have been ported over from the developer channels.
Build 39350.1 (08-01-2034)[]
Beta build leading up to the Zirconium semester. Introduced early support for Windows 128X, and began phasing out compatibility for legacy apps from Windows 7 through Windows 10.
Build 39400.10 (10-11-2034) (Zirconium)[]
34H2 feature update. Any app that was created in Windows 7/Windows 8/Windows 8.1/Windows 10 that has not been updated will no longer run. Many apps have been further updated, while 128-bit has formally been added as an SKU known as Windows 128X. The start menu has been revised with many new features.
Build 39401.1 (09-01-2035)[]
Beta build leading up to the Niobium semester. Introduced early versions of Media Player 4.1 and taskbar refinements. Widgets received experimental layout options.
Build 39402.10 (10-11-2035) (Niobium) (same as Windows 14)[]
35H2 cumulative update. This minor update was the last update to actually include any major changes as future development shifted to Windows 14. This update includes a couple of changes to the taskbar and widgets, while also adding Media Player 4.1 as a free download for all versions.
Build 39403.10 (11-11-2036) (Niobium)[]
36H2 cumulative update. It was primarily bug fixes and a few minor changes. This update added a pop-up wizard that prompted users to upgrade to Windows 14 that appears at startup.
Build 39404.100 (09-10-2037) (Niobium)[]
37H2 cumulative update. This update updated the pop-up wizard; it now prompts users to upgrade to Windows 15 at startup. This was the final update to Windows 13.
Editions (WIP)[]
There are currently 7 editions of Windows 13:
- Windows 13 Starter
- Windows 13 Home Basic
- Windows 13 Home Premium
- Windows 13 Professional
- Windows 13 Enterprise
- Windows 13 Ultimate
- Windows 128X (added in 34H2 cumulative update)
Gallery[]
