Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) unveiled new educational products today in New York City. The company’s new products include the Windows 10 S operating system for students.
The company is not offering Windows 10 S for existing computers. The new operating system is expected to debut on cheaper laptops and tablets from PC manufacturers looking to build affordable computers, according to a report from Business Insider.
The S stands for “streamlined for simplicity, security, and superior performance. The S also “reflects the soul of Windows,” the company said in a statement.
With this new version of Windows 10, Microsoft is taking aim at Google Chrome OS. The education technology market is projected to grow at 17.0% per annum to $252 billion by 2020, according to a report from EdTechXGlobal.
Windows 10 S
Microsoft’s Windows boss Terry Myerson said that “everything that runs on Windows 10 S is downloaded from the Windows Store.” You will not be able to install and run any software. That could be an attractive thing for schools.
But if you think the Windows Store thing is too limiting, you can upgrade to a full version of Windows 10 Pro by paying a small fee.
Microsoft said that its partners – including Acer, ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Samsung, and Toshiba – already offer a range of Windows 10 PCs for students starting at $189. And in the coming months, they will build “a range of Windows 10 S devices—from powerful and affordable Windows Ink and touch PCs to beautiful premium devices.”
Microsoft also Introduces Windows 10 S-Powered Surface Laptop
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) also unveiled ultra-thin and light laptop called Surface Laptop. Powered by Windows 10 S, the laptop will meet the needs of college students, according to the company.
Here are Surface Laptop specs:
Display
– 13.5 in PixelSense Display
– Resolution: 2256 x 1504 (201 PPI)
– Aspect ratio 3:2
– Surface Pen (Sold Separately)
– Touch: 10-point multi-touch
– Corning Gorilla Glass
Processor
– 7th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7
Memory
– 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB RAM
Storage
– Solid state drive (SSD) options: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB4
Graphics
– Intel HD 620 (i5)
– Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 (i7)
Battery life
– Up to 14.5 hours video playback6
Other
– 720p HD camera (front-facing)
– Stereo microphones
– Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Audio Premium
– 3.5mm headphone jack
– USB 3.0
– Headset jack
– mini DisplayPort
Shares of Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) were trading up 0.11% in the afternoon trading session. The stock is up nearly 12% so far this year.