Microsoft released Windows 10 S alongside their new Surface and Surface Pro laptops back in June with a promise of a free upgrade to Windows 10 Pro until Dec.31, 2017. Windows 10 S is Microsofts take on a pure and independent Operating System (OS).
Microsoft touts the 10 S as an OS built with security and performance in mind. It received mixed reactions from consumers because you can no longer download programs unless it came directly from the Windows Store. But with this exclusivity, Microsoft has better control over its OS’ performance, battery life, and security.
If you’re not a fan of the new OS Microsoft gives you the option to upgrade to the more widely used Windows 10 Pro. They’ve also extended that free upgrade window from Dec.31, 2017 to March 31, 2018, giving users more time to decide.
I’m eager to see how this whole Windows 10 S thing will turn out. On one hand it offers the highest level of security that we’ve ever seen on a Windows OS. On the other hand it also prevents users from installing software out of the Windows Store.
I do think that many non tech-savvy people can take advantage of the security that Windows 10 S offers. But, I also do think that many of those people will throw it away because it does not allow them to install programs.