Microsoft held a significant event yesterday in the United States, showcasing an array of exciting announcements and innovations. Although their developer conference is still set to take place in 10 days, anticipation was high that new products would be unveiled at this gathering. True to expectations, Microsoft made several key announcements, one of which was the launch of an all-new version of Windows 10, aptly named Windows 10 S.
For those unfamiliar with the topic, this operating system was previously known by its codename, Windows 10 Cloud. A defining characteristic of Windows 10 S is its restriction on running native Win32 applications; instead, it exclusively supports apps sourced from the Windows Store. This approach is aimed primarily at enhancing security, as explained by Terry Myerson, who emphasized the advantages of limiting app sources.
Designed with educational institutions in mind, it targets students and teachers. It offers a streamlined environment that allows teachers and administrators to swiftly deploy educational tools and resources, facilitating a seamless setup for classroom environments. Myerson assured users that, over time, there would be no noticeable performance degradation compared to other Windows editions, reinforcing the system’s reliability.
For those needing the flexibility to run Win32 applications, Windows 10 S offers a straightforward upgrade path to the Pro edition via the Windows Store.
Pricing for devices equipped with Windows 10 S is expected to be around $189, with availability slated for this summer, just in time for the new school year. Through this strategic move, Microsoft aims to position itself as a formidable competitor to Chromebooks, which have gained popularity in educational settings due to their similar features and capabilities rooted in Chrome OS.
