Joe Belfiore, Corporate Vice President in the Operating Systems Group at Microsoft, confirmed the changes on Twitter: “We use Win10S as an option for schools or businesses that want the ‘low-hassle’/ guaranteed performance version,” Belfiore said. “Next year 10S will be a “mode” of existing versions, not a distinct version. SO … I think it’s totally fine/good that it’s not mentioned” The Windows 10 S mode will be included on Windows 10 will allow users to choose which version to use. Win10S is a lighter and more secure version for simpler tasks. However, users will be able to turn the mode off to use the full Windows 10 PC experience within restrictions.

— Joe Belfiore (@joebelfiore) March 7, 2018 Microsoft has been building up to this official change. Earlier in the year, the company switched Windows 10 S pcs to Windows 10 Pro on the Insider Program. This was a purposeful move that was clearing the way for this permanent Win10S mode. “Insiders running Windows 10 S may have noticed that after upgrading to the latest builds, their PC appears to be running ‘Windows 10 Pro In S Mode’.” Microsoft’s Dona Sarkar wrote at the time, “This change is by design and these PCs will continue to function as Windows 10 S PCs “

Win10S

When it launched, Windows 10 S was a separate SKU from other Windows versions. That means it sat separately from Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro, and Windows 10 Enterprise. Microsoft has been offering a free upgrade path to Win10 S to Win10 Pro. The Win10 S platform will retain its more streamlined and secure approach. Microsoft insists people do want to use Windows 10 S. The company says 60% of people with Win10 S devices stick with the software and didn’t upgrade to Win10 Pro. That’s a solid number that shows there is a market for the platform.

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