Although Microsoft has yet to officially discuss plans for Windows 8, a 2012 release would be consistent with previous Microsoft pledges to release a new desktop operating system every three years. Windows 7 was released a month ago.

The latest speculation suggesting a 2012 release has been credited to Microsoft Kitchen, a blog with the tagline “Serving up some seriously tasty Microsoft.”

Despite showing roadmaps apparently picked up at PDC, the blog has little else to reveal about Windows 8.

However, a Microsoft employee may have inadvertently spilled the beans on one key Windows 8 feature last month.

Microsoft employee Robert Morgan appeared to detail the software giant’s plans to make a 128-bit version of Windows 8, and even Windows 9, on LinkedIn, where he listed his job as ‘senior research and development’. His profile, which has now been removed from the business networking site, said Morgan was “working in high security department for research and development involving strategic planning for medium and longterm projects”.

It went on to reveal that his R&D projects included: “128-bit architecture compatibility with the Windows 8 kernel and Windows 9 project plan”. He’s also responsible for “forming relationships with major partners: Intel, AMD, HP and IBM”.

Microsoft is also looking for employees to help shape Windows 8, according to reports online. Neowin.net spotted the vacancy for a Windows 7 software engineer on Microsoft’s site.

“We just finished up work on Windows 7, and are pushing forth on Windows 8 planning and preparation,” said the blurb in the job ad, which was replicated on the CodenameWindows website.

“As part of this team, you will help shape Windows 8. Components of our code include a core agent that runs as an NT service, an API layer and a UI application,” added the advert. (Via PC Advisor)