Summary of "Windows 12 Is Still Around and Is Wackier Than Ever"
Overview of the Investigation
A YouTuber investigates an ongoing online scam/bootlegging operation branded as “Windows 12.” The operation is sold through a UK-styled storefront described as “web houses.”
The creator argues that “Windows 12” is not a real Microsoft Windows release. Instead, it is an unmodified, freely available Linux distribution (Linux Lite) that has been repackaged and rebranded for resale—sometimes with partial “Windows 12” branding, a new wallpaper, and minor installer/UI text edits.
Key Findings and Commentary
“Windows 12” listing remains active for a year
- The creator claims the storefront has kept the “Windows 12” listing live for about a year.
- The site allegedly accepts orders and charges money for “Windows 12,” even though the product appears to be Linux Lite under another name.
- The creator suggests Microsoft has either not noticed or not stopped the operation.
Earlier purchases reportedly failed
- The creator recounts attempts to buy “Windows 12” before.
- The order allegedly resulted in not receiving the product (and/or not receiving tracking information).
- They describe disputing the charge to obtain a refund.
The sold OS is verified as Linux Lite
- After obtaining a copy from someone else, the creator says they confirmed the OS is literally Linux Lite.
- The changes are described as rebranding only, without meaningful modifications.
The storefront sells more than just “Windows 12”
The investigation notes that the site appears to be more of a general reseller than a credible tech vendor, listing items such as:
- Broadband routers/cables
- Printer cartridges
- Phones/laptops
- Other supplies
This broader inventory contributes to the suspicion that the operation is not a legitimate technology business.
Exaggerated ISP claims raise red flags
The creator highlights what they describe as implausible broadband/ISP marketing, including:
- Fast speeds without believable evidence
- No contracts
- No price increases
They also point to a lack of evidence for the company in official UK business records (Companies House), describing this as part of a broader pattern of “shady” conduct.
Other misleading Microsoft-related media appears on the site
The creator reports additional questionable listings, including:
- “Windows 10 installation DVDs”
- Discs with inconsistent or clearly incorrect branding (e.g., Windows XP logos)
- A “combo” disc pairing Windows 10 with Kali Linux
“Windows 12 Lite” Variant
A “Windows 12 Lite” version is said to circulate with partial branding. The creator describes testing it in a VM and claims it still boils down to Linux Lite with cosmetic changes:
- The “Windows 12” text/logo placement appears poorly assembled (off-centered text over Linux Lite branding).
- Installer/branding screens include partial text edits (e.g., referencing “Windows 12 Lite”), while underlying identity still appears Linux Lite–like.
- The desktop includes Windows-style wallpaper and “welcome” text to make it appear more Windows-like.
Conclusion from the Creator
Despite cosmetic differences (installer labeling, wallpaper, and minor UI text), the creator emphasizes that the core operating system behavior remains Linux Lite, not a genuine Windows 12.
The creator’s overall recommendation is repeated and direct:
Don’t buy from the vendor. The operation is framed as misleading bootleg software and potentially fraudulent commerce.
Presenters and Contributors
Primary presenter
- The video’s creator/host (referred to as “I” in the subtitles; not named).
Other contributors mentioned
- A commenter: allegedly provides a download link for a working “Windows 12 Lite,” along with instructions.
- A viewer: previously bought “Windows 12” and reported receiving a suspicious used Huawei phone, according to the host’s account.
Category
News and Commentary
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