Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of support for Windows 11 SE, a move that marks a significant shift in its strategy regarding low-cost laptops aimed at the education sector. Originally launched five years ago to compete with Google Chromebooks, Windows 11 SE was designed specifically for educational institutions, hoping to dissuade them from adopting Chrome OS.
According to an updated support article, Microsoft will cease all support for Windows 11 SE, including software updates, technical assistance, and security fixes, by October 2026. While devices running this operating system will continue to function, Microsoft strongly advises users to transition to a device that supports another edition of Windows 11 to ensure ongoing support and security.
Notably, Microsoft will not roll out its upcoming 25H2 update for Windows 11 SE, leaving devices on the existing 24H2 version until support concludes next year. Various manufacturers, including Acer, Asus, Dell, and Lenovo, have produced laptops featuring Windows 11 SE, with Microsoft even introducing its own budget-friendly Surface Laptop SE priced at 9 in 2021.
Historically, Microsoft has encountered challenges in its attempts to compete with Chrome OS. The company previously introduced an S Mode for Windows 10, which restricted users to apps from the Microsoft Store. This approach, however, proved frustrating due to the limited availability of applications. Windows 11 SE adopted a similar strategy, promoting the use of Progressive Web Apps (PWA) over traditional win32 applications, which required IT administrators to create exceptions for app usage.
The decision to phase out Windows 11 SE comes on the heels of a Gartner report indicating that Chromebooks are experiencing a decline in market share, attributed to a limited customer base and perceived inferior build quality. Since 2022, Chromebook shipments have been on a downward trajectory, and the current PC refresh cycle appears to be more focused on Windows 11 upgrades rather than a significant migration to Chrome OS.
