cloud-based operating system Archives

Winsage

August 1, 2025

Microsoft drops education-focused Windows 11 SE variant

Microsoft will discontinue support for Windows 11 SE in October 2026, as indicated by updates to its product overview page and FAQ. The final feature update for Windows 11 SE, version 24H2, has been released, marking the beginning of a phase-out. Windows 11 SE was launched in 2021 as a cloud-based operating system aimed at the education sector, alongside the budget-friendly Surface SE laptop. The Surface SE does not support operating system upgrades, complicating the transition for schools using this hardware. Microsoft is shifting its strategy to promote the full version of Windows 11 for educational environments, moving away from direct competition with Chromebooks.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

Months before millions of PCs will get stuck on Windows 10, Google makes its case for running ChromeOS to use Microsoft 365

Google has outlined five key ways in which ChromeOS enhances the Microsoft 365 experience for organizations: 1. Microsoft 365 applications are accessible to ChromeOS users, providing a desktop-like user experience. 2. ChromeOS devices can automatically log into Microsoft 365 applications using Single Sign-On (SSO) powered by Microsoft EntraID and other providers. 3. Integration of Microsoft OneDrive with the ChromeOS Files app is seamless. 4. ChromeOS devices can utilize OneDrive storage exclusively, ensuring no local data is retained on the device. 5. These features are easily configurable for IT administrators through the Google Admin console. Google's ChromeOS Flex allows users to run ChromeOS on existing PCs without additional costs, providing a secure, cloud-based operating system as an alternative to unsupported versions of Windows. This approach aims to refresh functional devices that cannot run Windows 11. ChromeOS is particularly suited for users who primarily need to perform basic tasks like web browsing and accessing Office applications.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

3 options to consider if your Windows 10 PC can’t be upgraded

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 Version 22H2 will be the last version, ending new updates and security patches in October. Users can continue to use their systems, but they will be at risk for security vulnerabilities without updates. Options for users include: 1. Paying for extended support, which offers continued security updates for a limited time after Windows 10's end of life. 2. Switching to Linux or ChromeOS Flex, both of which are free alternatives that can keep older PCs operational without hardware upgrades. 3. Purchasing a new PC, which may provide the latest technology but comes at a high cost. Without security updates, systems may become targets for cyber threats, risking data and privacy.

Winsage

November 27, 2024

Download Microsoft’s Windows 365 Link wallpapers. They’re stunning

Microsoft unveiled Windows 365 Link, a mini PC that streams the upcoming Windows CPC/NXT operating system from the cloud. Windows 365 serves as the service, Windows 365 Link as the hardware, and Windows CPC/NXT as the software. Windows CPC/NXT is designed with a web user experience, focusing on efficiency and simplicity, distinguishing itself from Windows 11. It features unique wallpapers in light and dark modes, characterized by a blue color palette and a glossy finish, which differ from the vibrant "Bloom" wallpaper of Windows 11. The light wallpaper has a bright blue backdrop, while the dark variant has a deep blue background with glowing edges. The design of the Windows 365 Link wallpapers aims for a professional aesthetic, suitable for professional environments.

Winsage

August 9, 2024

Microsoft almost ditched Windows’ spaghetti architecture for a cloud-based OS but mysteriously sent it to an early grave

In 2008, Microsoft began developing Midori, a cloud-based operating system intended as a successor to Windows, featuring a modern web browser interface and backward compatibility. The project was discontinued in 2015, but Microsoft indicated that elements of Midori would be integrated into future projects. Midori led to the creation of a new programming language, M#, aimed at enhancing performance and security. By 2013, it had moved to a structured development phase within Microsoft's Unified Operating System group before being shelved in 2015. Some features from Midori may have influenced Windows, particularly with updates in Windows 11, which includes AI-driven tools and user-friendly enhancements. Windows 11 is gradually increasing its market share as the end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches.