Microsoft releases ultra-convenient cloud PC: one-click connection to the cloud, access your desktop anytime, anywhere

Author: Fang Jiayao Source: Hard AI On Tuesday, November 19th, Eastern Time, Microsoft launched a new type of PC called Windows 365 Cloud Link, aimed at providing corporate employees with a more convenient cloud program and file access experience. Currently, this new computer is available for trial in the United States, Canada, and several other countries, with plans for a formal release in some markets at a price of $349 in April next year. Microsoft previously attempted to enter the ranks of top PC manufacturers through its Surface series, but was unsuccessful. In the second quarter of this year, Microsoft's device revenue fell by about 11% year-on-year to $1.2 billion, while global personal computer shipments grew by about 2% year-on-year. Now, Microsoft is trying to adopt new strategies in the mature hardware sector. Jalleen Ringer, head of the Windows cloud terminal product, revealed in an interview with CNBC that some companies have begun testing this new computer in call centers and "hot desk" situations, where employees do not have fixed workstations and can sit wherever there is an available spot. Front and side view of Windows 365 Link The design goal of this computer is to provide a simple and secure user experience. It runs a simplified operating system—Windows CPC. It does not have any local programs installed and has no local users, thereby enhancing security. Additionally, the computer is tightly controlled, only allowing specific programs to run, and this setting cannot be changed. Windows 365 Link will also automatically stay up to date, quietly downloading updates in the background and installing them automatically at night, so employees are not disturbed while using the computer during the day. This new computer is equipped with an Intel chip, 8GB of memory, and 64GB of storage. It is lightweight, weighing less than a pound, and has a shape resembling a small pancake, making it easy to place on a desk or hang behind a computer monitor. The release of Windows 365 Cloud Link comes three years after the launch of the Windows 365 service. Windows 365 is a Microsoft service that allows employees to access their personalized virtual desktops on any device. Desktop virtualization technology (including Microsoft's earlier launched Azure Virtual Desktop) became popular after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, as many employees were forced to work from home. In July 2023, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced that Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365 together generated $1 billion in revenue for the first time in fiscal year 2024. Meanwhile, Dell and HP are also selling so-called "thin client PCs," which can connect to virtual desktop infrastructure, using Windows systems or company-specific operating systems. Melissa Grant, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Microsoft, stated that Windows 365 Cloud Link is a "good alternative" to thin client PCs "Thin client PCs" refer to computers that have low configurations and primarily rely on network connections to operate. They typically connect to a remote server, which provides computing resources and storage space. Windows 365 Cloud Link offers another way for company employees to remotely access their work desktops, further driving innovation in corporate office models