Everything you need to know about Windows 10 S, with the latest news from IFA 2017 being that the rollout will go further than we first thought.
What is Windows 10 S?
Initially, Windows 10 S looked as if it would only appear on laptops designed for schools, but speaking to Trusted Reviews, a Microsoft spokesman confirmed the company has chosen to expand the OS outside of education after Windows 10 users reported wanting the security benefits of 10 S.
They highlighted families with children or elderly relatives just starting to use computers as a key market that could benefit from the machines.
Pricing remains unknown, but the spokesperson confirmed “they will cover all price points, including the affordable end.”
They added it would be up to OEMs to reveal further details when asked if the new consumer Windows 10 devices would match the pricing of affordable Chromebooks, which retail for as little as £200.
The news comes just after Microsoft revealed the launch date of its latest Windows 10 Fall Creators Update.
The update will start rolling out to full-fat Windows 10 PCs from October 17 and will bring a host of new features, including support for the influx of new VR headsets set to hit the market, like the Lenovo Explorer.
Related: Windows 10 S laptops
Can I download Windows 10 S?
Teachers will be able to update any Windows 10 S device to Windows 10 Pro free of charge. The OS will also come with a free one-year subscription to Minecraft Education Edition. Microsoft Office 365 and Intune for Education will also be free with Windows 10 S. The general public do not have access to a Windows 10 S download as it stands.
Related: Best laptops
What are your first thoughts on Windows 10 S? Let us know in the comments below – and check back regularly as we’ll be updating this article with more details as they become available.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.