Microsoft has quietly decided to discontinue support for its Windows 11 SE variant, a move that leaves educational institutions that opted for this platform over Google’s offerings in a challenging position. This decision comes just four years after the cloud-centric version of Windows was introduced, aiming to carve out a niche in the competitive education sector.
Transitioning Away from Windows 11 SE
Rather than issuing a formal announcement, Microsoft updated the product overview page and FAQ for Windows 11 SE, revealing that support will officially end in October 2026. The update clearly states, “Microsoft will not release a feature update after Windows 11 SE, version 24H2.” This indicates that the current version has reached its final feature update, marking the beginning of a gradual phase-out.
For those who may not be familiar, Windows 11 SE was launched in 2021 as a streamlined, cloud-based operating system designed to resemble Google’s ChromeOS, which has become the backbone of many educational devices. Alongside this OS, Microsoft introduced the budget-friendly Surface SE laptop, priced at 0, with the intention of making it an appealing choice for schools looking to equip classrooms.
While Microsoft has not confirmed the fate of the Surface SE laptop, the guidance for users to transition to devices that support other editions of Windows 11 suggests that it may no longer be a focal point for the company. Notably, the Surface SE does not support operating system upgrades or transitions, further complicating the situation for schools invested in this hardware.
In light of this development, Microsoft appears to be recalibrating its strategy within the education market. Instead of competing directly with Chromebooks, which have established a stronghold due to their affordability and ease of management, Microsoft is now advocating for the full version of Windows 11 as a viable solution for educational environments.
However, breaking into the education sector may prove to be a formidable challenge for Microsoft. Chromebooks have gained popularity not only for their low price point but also for their resilience against the wear and tear typically inflicted by students. Educators have begun to recognize that while these devices are economical, their durability issues can lead to unexpected costs associated with frequent replacements across large fleets of devices.
