Windows 10X - A Competitor to Chrome OS Set to Launch in 2021

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 15/4/2026

Windows 10X, the operating system designed for business and education purposes, is expected to launch in the spring of 2021 as a direct competitor to Chrome OS. Microsoft's overall goal in developing Windows 10X is to create a cloud-supported, modern, lightweight, and minimalist version of Windows.

A few years ago, Microsoft initiated the development of a simplified version of Windows named Windows Lite for budget-friendly devices. Windows 10X (initially known as Lite OS) is set to debut next year on mid-range devices from Microsoft's partners.

Learn more: What is Windows 10X?

Users will embrace Windows 10X in 2021

Built upon Windows Core OS, Windows 10X will feature a static App Launcher replacing the iconic Start Menu. This marks Microsoft's first operating system without Start Menu support, meaning you won't find weather forecasts, events, and more on the new App Launcher.

This operating system, based on Windows Core OS, will also ditch Microsoft's monochromatic design for icons, vibrant buttons, and more. It will sport rounded corners or soft curves in design, and Microsoft aims to optimize the OS for budget devices with just 4GB of RAM, initially debuting on devices with more memory.

Windows 10X will enter the RTM phase in the coming weeks, signaling its readiness for manufacturers. Microsoft is collaborating with suppliers to optimize Windows drivers for Windows 10X, with no structural changes expected for drivers.

Previously, Microsoft confirmed a shift in the development of Windows 10X, focusing on regular single-screen devices. Devices running Windows 10X will start shipping in spring 2021, without support for Win32 applications. You can now download and experience Windows 10X on your Win 10.

Learn more: How to download Windows 10X and install it on Win 10

Microsoft will enable users, whether individuals or businesses, to access their favorite desktop applications using an Internet-based technology called Cloud PC, synchronized with Office 365.

Microsoft sources clarify that the tech giant won't allow users to install this operating system on their existing devices. Similar to Windows 10 on ARM, Chrome OS, or iOS, Windows 10X will only ship with new devices. Of course, you can deploy it unofficially by creating a boot image.

Windows 10X is poised as a direct competitor to Chrome OS, with Microsoft targeting the education sector.

Recently, the Chrome browser on Android added a screenshot feature when users activate incognito mode. This is a relatively new and potentially problem-solving feature.

Learn more: Chrome for Android supports screenshot capture in incognito mode

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main features of Windows 10X for users?

Windows 10X features a static App Launcher, vibrant button designs, and a minimalist interface optimized for budget devices. It is built on Windows Core OS and supports cloud-based applications without a traditional Start Menu, making it a modern alternative for users, particularly in business and education.

Is Windows 10X designed to run on existing devices?

No, Windows 10X is not designed for existing devices. It will only be shipped with new devices, similar to how Chrome OS operates. Users cannot install it on their current systems, but they may create a boot image to deploy it unofficially.

How does Windows 10X differ from traditional Windows operating systems?

Windows 10X differs from traditional Windows by eliminating the Start Menu and focusing on a simplified user interface. It is aimed at budget-friendly devices, optimizing performance with a lightweight design and cloud integration, making it a viable option for the education sector.

When can we expect to see devices running Windows 10X available for purchase?

Devices running Windows 10X are expected to start shipping in spring 2021. These devices will initially target mid-range markets, allowing users to experience the new operating system without the support for Win32 applications, thus prioritizing cloud-based solutions.

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