This week, we took our first look at Windows 10X for single-screen PCs. Now, an alleged almost final version of the software was created by the community after Microsoft uploaded the files for version 20279, giving us a much better idea of what Windows 10X will look like when it is pre-installed on machines shipped later this year. Spoiler alert: Many Chrome OS design tips are needed.
Both The Verge and Windows Central got its hands on the pre-release version of Windows 10X, which undoubtedly looks like Microsoft’s answer to Google’s Chrome OS. It is a lightweight version of Windows 10 that looks aimed at corporate and educational circles.
Inside From Windows Central video, we have a good idea of how Windows 10 will be used, from the redesigned taskbar to running progressive web applications (PWA). The video demonstrates some of the software settings, the process of installing a PWA and running applications side by side. It’s an interesting glimpse of what Microsoft has planned for those who want a lighter, tablet-like experience.
Windows 10X is not something you will be able to upgrade to. Instead, the software will come pre-installed on new laptop-like machines running Chrome OS. If you’ve been tempted by a Chromebook, but it’s embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem, the arrival of Windows 10X will be exactly what you’re looking for.
Credits: Tom Warren for The Verge
Windows 10X was originally designed for foldable, dual-screen devices, but last year Microsoft announced that it was reworking software for single-screen PCs. The result appears to be an experience that will provide users with access to Microsoft services in a more affordable package.
We expect the first Windows 10X devices to be released later this year, but the exact deadline has not been revealed. Likewise, we’re not sure how much these devices will cost, but if we had to take a guess, they would be in the range of $ 400 to $ 700.
If you are curious to test Windows 10X alone, Twitter user thebookisclosed shared a download link for an “emulator image” that can be installed following the NTAuthority user guide.
Would you like to play with a newer version of Windows 10X? I created an image similar to an emulator (read: use only in Hyper-V)
Just create a generation 2 VM and use it as your disk: https: //t.co/7mQOA8ldUM
Enjoy 😄 https://t.co/w28SiVdkmu
– Albacore (@thebookisclosed) January 14, 2021