Windows 10 S Revealed: Microsoft’s New OS Vs. Windows 10 Pro - Features, Apps & More

Windows 10 S headlined Microsoft’s education event on Tuesday, and you may be wondering what the new operating system actually is. It’s a restricted version of Windows 10 with speed and safety in mind.

In terms of features, the advertised elegance of Windows 10 S is in its simplicity. Instead of having access to the limitless catalogue of compatible programs consistent with other PCs, Windows 10 S hardware will only run approved apps from the Microsoft app store. In other words, you can’t install popular third-party tools like Chrome, iTunes, Firefox or Steam. In large part, what comes on the product is what you get. Thankfully, Microsoft Office is fully compatible, however.

Read: Surface Laptop Revealed - Runs Windows 10 S For $999

From Microsoft’s point of view, this restriction has a few advantages. Because the operating system is stripped of so much unnecessary bloat, it loads 15 seconds faster than the Pro version. That means less waiting to log in and more time editing and improving the content you care about.

Another major advantage of Windows 10 S is increased security. PCs get viruses because the Windows architecture is so widely open to content creation. If installs are heavily restricted, that means those wishing to do harm to your computer won’t be able to gain access to it. Microsoft approves every app that can run on Windows 10 S, so you know it’s safe to use. That’s a big bonus for educational settings or for users who don’t feel comfortable using a standard PC.

It also seems like Windows 10 S will be more closely related to low-cost machines as well. Partnerships with known manufacturers like Dell, HP and Acer will yield Windows 10 S machines for as low as $189. While Microsoft’s own Windows 10 S Surface Laptop won’t run that cheap, you’ll soon start seeing true Chromebook alternatives with the familiarity of the Windows 10 interface. Technically, the entire OS is meant to be free because your machine will ship with it installed. If you want to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro on a Windows 10 S device, non-students must pay $49.

Read: Surface Pro 5 & Surface Book To Skip Microsoft Event

The idea of a restricted Windows platform is nothing new. Back in 2011, Microsoft introduced a product called Windows RT with similar app-gating visions. However, the Microsoft app store has grown substantially since then. That means the catalog of software users can install is far greater than it was in the RT era. We still wouldn't recommend it for the vast majority of use cases, but Windows 10 S asserts itself as a slightly more viable version of that old idea.

Windows 10 S will start shipping this summer. Its flagship product is the Surface Laptop set to release June 15.

Does Windows 10 S sound appealing to you? Does it have enough of a purpose to be successful? Tell us in the comments section!