Hereafter the launch and the great success of Google Chrome devices, Microsoft realized the need for a lighter and less complex operating system focused mainly on education devices. For this reason, Redmond announced Windows 10 S, the “light” version of Windows that should be available from this summer.
Let’s try to understand more in detail what we are talking about.
What is Windows 10 S
As we mentioned before, Windows 10 S is Microsoft’s new lightweight operating system. The word “lightweight” means the OS weighs less on the processor than the current Windows 10, and it’s suitable for less performing devices. Also, it will be inexpensive.
To make it lighter we will find fewer applications working in backgroud. According to Microsoft’s promises, a laptop with Windows 10 S is able to turn on and load the user profile in 15 seconds less than it would with Windows 10 Pro.
The advantages of a lighter and cheaper operating system
Windows 10 S will be especially useful for schools and educational environments, enabling a faster and more economical standardization. It can also be a good alternative for those who do not use the PC for working reasons, but maybe just for browsing, and need to save on hardware.
Applications could only be downloaded from the Store
As a lightweight OS, applications for Windows 10 S could only be downloaded and installed by the Windows Store due to security reasons: you can avoid mistakes and download infected applications, as the Store applies strict control over its contents. This is especially useful for computers used in schools.
It’s nonetheless a controversial choice: the Store currently misses few essential applications like Chrome. We can hope that Microsoft adds the essential alternatives in the meantime.
Which devices will it be available on?
The new OS will be pre-installed on a large number of computers, from the cheaper to brand new devices such as Dell, HP, and Acer. The cheapest Windows 10 S device should cost $189.
It will be only available pre-installed on devices or through a vendor. If you don’t like your Windows 10 S device, you can switch to Windows 10 Pro for free if you are a student, or paying $49.
Windows 10 S availability
As mentioned, Windows 10 S will be launched this summer.