Windows 10 S is Microsoft's answer to Chrome OS ("S"=="Store", it only runs Windows Store apps)

The Verge ^ | May 2, 2017 | Tom Warren

[dayglored]

Microsoft is introducing a new version of Windows 10 today: Windows 10 S. It's essentially Microsoft's answer to Chrome OS, to simplify Windows for low-end hardware and in particular, the education market. “Everything that runs on Windows 10 S is downloaded from the Windows Store,” says Microsoft’s Windows chief Terry Myerson. That doesn't mean that desktop apps won't run on this version of Windows 10, but they'll need to be specially packaged and listed in the Windows Store.

During a demonstration onstage, Myerson showed off the ability to support peripherals and devices just like regular Windows 10. Myerson also noted that Microsoft has "streamlined" the default wallpaper for Windows 10 S, a strange change to note during Microsoft's keynote. "Windows 10 S will run any browser in the Windows Store," says Myerson, hinting that if Google is willing to list Chrome in the Store then it will be available on devices that run Windows 10 S. Without Chrome, Microsoft has obviously focused on its Edge browser and in particular education sites and web apps.

(Lots more at the link.)

[dayglored]

At first I thought the "S" in "Windows 10 S" was for "STUDENT" or "SCHOOL", but no-no-no. True, it is aimed in part at the school/educational market. But really it's about driving software sales over to the Windows Store.

And coincidentally, it's also aimed at the "S" in "Surface Laptop".

For example, here's Windows 10 S is going to confuse people:

"...The dual role played by Windows 10 S at today’s event might pose problems for Microsoft down the line as prospective users struggle to figure out what exactly the S stands for... Windows 10 S is Windows 10 with its wings slightly clipped: it can only run apps from the Windows Store, disabling compatibility with the enormous breadth of Windows programs out there... Muddying matters a little more, Microsoft is literally positioning Windows 10 S in between the Home and Pro versions of Windows, both of which can run apps from outside the Store, which to many people would make them the superior choice. So the question of the precise identity of Windows 10 S persists..."

[dayglored]

Windows 10 "S"... PING!

You can find all the Windows Ping list threads with FR search: just search on keyword "windowspinglist".

[dayglored]

So... is it a breath mint, or a candy mint?

(obscure Certs ref)

[Bubba_Leroy]

The S is for $hit.

It is basically crippleware.

[knarf]

I think my biggest confusion is the "why" of it all.

I learned to surf in 1998 and that pretty much has served me all these years.

Oh, I picked up a few "sandbox" tricks, but ...

What ARE all these features and who uses ... or more importantly .... needs them ?

I don't even know what a peripheral IS let alone be able to use or need it.

Are all these fancy upgrades and features for the researcher or the scientist or the writer that copies and pastes a dozen pages at a time after editing each one. ?

What was wrong with my 98SE anyway ?

[sagar]

Windows “apps” were a thing back when we were installing using CD-ROMs. Now, not so much. Their store is full of junkware and many are just plain malware.

[dhs12345]

Like Windows CE?

[PAR35]

Most important question - will it run on an IBM PCjr?

[dangerdoc]

Just the product I’m not looking for.

I’m guessing they are going to push these on schools.

[dayglored]

> I’m guessing they are going to push these on schools.

Yep. Windows has been losing the school market in droves. This is (among other things) an effort to regain some momentum against Chrome OS which is very popular in schools. Of course the Mac machines are also popular school computers, but more pricey than Chrome.

[Anti-Bubba182]

I don’t know why Microsoft does not offer pay updates for old Operating Systems. Is it possible to update them?

[dayglored]

> The S is for $hit.

Ouch. :-)

Bill Gates is searching feverishly for his Safe Space (two more "S"es)

[dayglored]

> I don’t know why Microsoft does not offer pay updates for old Operating Systems. Is it possible to update them?

They only want to have to support the latest versions. Supporting older versions, while it might please the customers, is not in their overall strategy. They want to maximize the Windows footprint, but keep it homogeneous.

[Anti-Bubba182]

All they do there is give customers a reason to switch if they can.

[MarineBrat]

Once they force me to abandon Windows 7 I will switch to all Linux boxes and run Windows in VM’s as needed. I don’t want to, but it’s MY COMPUTER and it’s going to stay that way.

[Organic Panic]

Just what windows needs. Another wild success to Windows CE.

[jeffc]

I don’t know why Microsoft does not offer pay updates for old Operating Systems.

My take is so you have to buy a new PC because your old one isn't fast enough for the new OS, which all the apps, games and browsers require. And then MS gets a cut of every PC sold.....

[Secret Agent Man]

Dear Microsquish,

I have already decided I will never buy or use Windows 10. You don’t have to keep supplying me with additional reasons not to buy it.

Thanks,
SAM

[Anti-Bubba182]

There is always an angle.

[JoeRed]

They should call the Windows Store apps “Metro Apps” and call all the other programs “Legacy Apps.” It worked so well before...