Recap: Windows 10 S was Microsoft's almost recent attempt at swaying teachers and students away from Google Chromebooks. While the stripped-down OS variant was met with lukewarm reception due to an overly restrictive user feel and a lackluster app store, Microsoft is now trying again with a special edition of Windows 11 that'due south meant to be more open to 3rd-party apps and volition send without the Microsoft Shop.

Microsoft is looking to challenge Google in the K-8 classroom with a special, education-focused version of Windows 11, which it hopes will go popular with schools and students. This fourth dimension around, the company is as well launching accompanying hardware, namely the Surface Laptop SE.

Other OEMs like Lenovo and Acer accept also listed their SE models, but information technology's the $249 Surface Laptop that realizes Microsoft's vision for Windows 11 and teaching in terms of software and hardware. As expected, the device packs the blank minimum of specs, which include an Intel Celeron chip (dual-cadre or quad-core), 4GB/8GB RAM, 64GB/128GB eMMC storage and an eleven.half-dozen-inch display with a 1,366 x 768 resolution.

Connectivity is enabled past Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, a iii.5mm jack, 1 x USB-A and USB-C cablevision, alongside a proprietary power connector. There's likewise a 720p webcam and stereo speakers to assist with online learning, while Microsoft's 365 suite with Word, OneDrive and other productivity apps should exam the aforementioned hardware to its limits.

During normal use, the laptop is expected to final for up to 16 hours on a unmarried charge. Microsoft as well highlighted the Surface's high-quality typing experience at a upkeep cost, performance enhancements for resource optimization, and hardware repairability. Major components like display, battery, motherboard, and keyboard tin can be easily repaired onsite, according to the company.

Interestingly, Windows 11 SE ditches the Microsoft Shop and volition support third-political party apps, including Chrome and Zoom. The Os will allow these apps to open up in full-screen mode and comes with a simplified Snap Layout that just allows apps to be placed adjacent. In that location'due south besides a colorful new wallpaper for students to notice.

Microsoft says that Windows 11 SE volition simply exist shipped on depression-cost laptops meant for school and pupil use. The company expects more OEM models with varying specs and price points to become available throughout this year and into 2022 as the didactics buying flavour approaches. Considering the declining demand for entry-level laptops, it'll exist interesting to see how (and if) Microsoft'southward push with Windows eleven SE and low-cost hardware can affect the tendency.