It wasn't specified just how much they would dumb it down. A cross between simplified and standard was implied. It will be a new layout with elements from both. The standard watchtower is already at a 3rd grade reading level.
The plan to evaluate a 2-year Awake/Watchtower cycle is interesting. If they go through with it (highly likely), there will be no new articles after 2 years. That would mean 6 Awakes and 6 Watchtowers total - to be reprinted as needed.
Also, no more year books.