Buzz
At the event on May 2nd, Microsoft announced its focus on the education sector, planning to double down on Windows by introducing the Windows 10 S version to provide additional benefits for users in education.
However, when using Windows 10 S, you may not notice any differences from Windows 10 Pro, except for the default wallpaper being set.
Exploring Windows 10 for Students
Windows 10 S is described as a fully functional version of Windows designed to run 'smoother' on all hardware. Microsoft does not precisely disclose the meaning of the letter S, but the company explains that the version is developed from features requested by teachers - thus, this version integrates the education sector.
These features include: faster login times, improved battery life, the ability to run desktop applications, easy management across multiple devices, and software that only runs verified applications.
Understanding Windows 10 Sandboxed
That's the Catch on Windows 10 S: a version designed only to run verified applications from the Windows Store. You won't be able to download apps online and install them, hence this version can be called a sandbox.
This means it has enhanced security measures for user groups, but it also means Microsoft knows exactly what software will be executed, and power needs can be consolidated, some background apps will be restricted and only intervene minimally in system resource.
If a Windows 10 S user attempts to install an app from outside the Windows Store, the installation will be halted, but then the user will be provided with an alternative solution from the Windows Store, verified by Microsoft.
What about Windows 10 Speed?
Microsoft has demonstrated that the process of a new user logging into a Windows 10 S computer is faster than a standard Windows 10 Pro computer. The aim here is to ensure that students can work faster, with minimal delays.
There are no hardware restrictions on Windows 10 S, as this version is designed to run on a variety of devices.
What about Office 365 on Windows 10 S?
Certainly, users can install and run Office 365 on Windows 10 S, so users will have access to essential tools. Microsoft has also confirmed that the full version of Office 365 is available on the Microsoft Store and is completely free for users in the education sector.
Considering purchasing a Windows 10 S device for daily tasks? It seems you'll need to pay for Office 365.
Is it possible to upgrade Windows 10 S to Windows 10 Pro?
The answer is yes. If you dislike the feature limitations of Windows 10 S, especially the limitations in installing apps, you can easily upgrade to Windows 10 Pro with just a few mouse clicks and an update.
This could be an 'enticing' choice for users if they need to install and use apps not verified by Microsoft. This upgrade will incur a small fee, approximately $49 USD, however, for Microsoft Intune for Education users managing devices, updating to Windows 10 Pro is free.
Advice for using Intune is that if you need to use a specific part of specialized software in the classroom or laboratory, for example, you can change the relevant computer to allow that.
Microsoft also confirms that users in the education sector will be able to switch devices from Windows 10 Pro to Windows 10 S.
Regarding third-party devices on Windows 10 S?
Microsoft is working to be compatible with a variety of third-party accessories and devices. This is because users will need drivers signed by Microsoft in order to use third-party accessories and devices on Windows 10 S.
For a new release, vulnerabilities are unavoidable. Windows 10 S version is no exception, although the specific vulnerabilities have not been identified yet.
How much does Windows 10 S cost?
To use the Windows 10 S version, you will have to pay at least $189 USD, whether using it in the education sector or broader fields.
Microsoft has also introduced the Surface Laptop, the premium version of Windows 10 S, designed to compete with MacBook. The Surface Laptop will be released on June 15th, offering high energy and high-quality design. The Surface Laptop will be priced at $999 USD.
Exploring Windows 10 S unveils its features, utilities, target audience, and pricing. Alongside Windows 10 S, there's another version of Win 10 called Windows 10 Creators Update, boasting many special and intriguing features. If you're curious about this operating system, you can install Windows 10 Creators Update via USB following Mytour's instructions.
Microsoft may soon introduce Windows 10x with a myriad of new features. To delve deeper into this operating system, check out the article on Windows 10X here.
