You might have heard about the new Windows 11 SE, but maybe you are yet to know some or most of its features. This article contains all the information you need to know about Microsoft’s cloud-based edition of Windows 11, and why it is a perfect competition to ChromeOS.
It is obvious that Chromebooks are very popular in educational institutions and small businesses. E-learning and remote working have increased the popularity of ChromeOS, and the trend does not show any signs of stopping for now. Microsoft has decided to be part of that game, as they developed a special Windows 11 OS version to battle with the ChromeOS. let me now introduce you to Windows 11 SE, a cloud-based edition of Windows 11, aimed at k-8 education users.
Also read: Chromebook Password Could Not Be Verified Issues – How to Solve It
Windows 11 SE is Designed to Make Learning Accessible
Windows 11 SE has an intuitive and straightforward UI that offers a decent environment for teachers and students. Microsoft included Intunes and the full version of Office and Minecraft Education Edition in the per-device price of Windows 11 SE laptops. IT admins can use Intune to deploy and manage apps, keep devices secure, and so on.
A Windows 11 SE laptop comes with a lesser price tag compared to a Chromebook with smaller specs when it comes to the overall cost.
Also read: How to Put Apps on Desktop in Chromebook – Pin to Shelf
Microsoft has optimized Windows 11 SE for better battery life. For instance, the Surface Laptop SE boasts up to 16 hours of battery life, which is quite okay. Additionally, Windows 11 SE features built-in enhancement to optimize system performance on low-cost hardware.
NOTE: You can use an active Microsoft Office 365 A3 or A5 license on Windows 11 SE devices.
Windows 11 SE Features
Strict App Limitations
Users can run browser-based apps on their Windows 11 SE devices, but another thing is that they cannot install their own apps. This simply means that you cannot download and install third-party apps or apps from the Microsoft Store. The IT admins are in full control of app installation, as well as advanced features and settings.
There are six categories of apps that Windows 11 SE supports. They are as follows:
- Browsers
- Test-taking apps
- Classroom communication apps
- Accessibility apps
- Apps that filter content
- Diagnostics, management, and connectivity apps
Apps that do not fall into one of these six categories cannot be installed on Windows 11 SE devices. Microsoft worked together with educators and IT admins to compile a list of apps necessary for educational purposes. The good news is that the list is not closed. You can always request Microsoft to support new apps.
Offline Experiences
Microsoft Office apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote are available for offline usage. OneDrive automatically stores files locally for offline use. This simply means that students do not need an internet connection to review class notes or do their homework.
You Cannot Go Back to Windows 11 SE after Uninstalling the OS
If you want to use your Windows 11 SE laptop as a personal device, you can erase all the data, uninstall the OS, and then install a different Windows version. But the important thing you should note is that you will not be able to go back to Windows 11 SE once you have hit the “Uninstall” button.
Windows 11 SE vs Windows 11 Education
- The Windows 11 SE is a cloud-based OS
- The OS can run on low-cost devices, whereas Windows 11 Education and Windows 11 Pro Education can’t run on low-spec machines
- Education users can install their own apps
Windows 11 SE vs Windows 10 in S Mode
- The Windows 11 SE has a much simpler UI
- On the other hand, Windows 10 in S Mode users can download apps from the Microsoft Store
- They can also upgrade to Windows 10
- Windows 10 in S Mode doesn’t feature specific system enhancement for low-cost hardware
- Windows 10 in S Mode is also available for consumers, whereas Windows 11 SE is restricted for use in educational institutions.
Windows 11 SE Laptops for Education
The price of Windows 11 SE devices at the moment ranges from $249 to $399. Microsoft also listed two different price ranges on its website, $400 to $499 and $500 and higher.
Most Windows 11 SE laptops spot displays that measure 11.6 or 14 inches. They come equipped with 4GB of memory and 64GB of eMMC storage space. For instance, the Lenovo 14w Gen 2 model offers 8GB of RAM but sports only 64GB of eMMC storage space.
Some models feature 8GB RAM and 128GB eMMC storage space (Surface Laptop SE). Talking about specs, the Surface Laptop SE is your best choice taking into action the current offer.
Windows 11 SE laptops will not be available at retail. These devices are intended for schools that use cloud-based management and security solutions.
Conclusion
Here are the keynotes in this article:
- Windows 11 SE comes pre-installed on compatible devices.
- This cloud-based OS comes with a simple UI and is optimized for low-spec computers.
- If you uninstall the OS, you can’t undo the changes and reinstall it.
- Users can only run web apps and can’t install their own apps.
- School IT admins control everything in terms of app installation, features, and settings.
So, what do you think about the new Windows 11 SE OS? Will it compete with ChromeOS? kindly share your thoughts in the comment section below.
