New commercial Windows 10 S machines built for businesses are on the way from HP, Lenovo and Fujitsu.
When Microsoft first debuted Windows 10 S in May, it was clearly targeted at the education market. A large reason for that is due to the fact that it's more secure without the ability to run apps from outside of the Windows Store. That can have its perks in other scenarios as well, particularly when combined with low-cost devices for the enterprise.
At its Ignite 2017 event in Orlando today, Microsoft has announced that new commercial Windows 10 S devices are coming from HP, Lenovo, and Fujitsu. Starting at $275, pricing firmly falls into the low-cost territory, which, combined with simplified management and self-service deployment, Microsoft is hoping will provide an overall reduced cost for businesses.
The devices will also be offered alongside a new Microsoft 365 F1 subscription bundle, which is tailored for firstline workers. The bundle combines Office 365 F1, Windows 10, and Enterprise Mobile and Security and more.
Aside from the students and educators, commercial users seem like a natural fit for Windows 10 S. The Windows Store-bound OS offers a more secure environment and will be available with relatively low-cost hardware. For organizations that must leverage legacy Win32 apps, Windows 10 S is obviously a no-go. However, the arrival of full Office apps on the Windows Store likely alleviates at least one major pressure point for many users.
As for when to expect the devices to arrive, Microsoft doesn't have any firm dates available, but it does say to expect them "later this year."
Reader comments
Commercial Windows 10 S devices on the way from HP, Lenovo, and Fujitsu
Chgc
Chc
Everything gets postponed by MSFT. They are the company that enjoys saying "Coming Soon" or "Later this year"
These devices are third party, so how will MS 'postpone' them?
Uhm not sure what kind of businesses operate with no win32 apps, and currently, the windows store is anemic in apps. I know for sure in the financial industry, windows 10s is a no, because of all the legacy win32 apps used. Maybe small business that only use the browser might be okay with Windows10s...
Many businesses operate with only Office, browser and Virtual Desktop.
There are even companies that can live with Macs.
That's why MS still offers full Windows 10. The purpose of Windows 10 S (Store) is to increase the % of users who become aware of and use the Store. It doesn't need to be anywhere near 100%, just enough to make developers recognize that it's in their interest to release through the Store, rather than outside the Store.
At least now, the have a choice for their needs.
Watch everyone who buys one immediately upgrade to Pro for free
Not going to happen if it's bought by a company IT department to reduce the risk of viruses and other problems. Their purpose in buying would be to prevent users from installing potentially unsafe apps, while still allowing users some flexibility to install safer Store apps. The purpose here is purely to increase usage and awareness of the Store. Otherwise, obviously MS would rather sell the more expensive Windows 10, which still has the same ability to buy apps through the Store. Problem is, most people aren't even aware of it. This will increase that awereness and the benefit to developers to release Store versions of their applications.