Microsoft launches Windows 11 SE developed for educational users
Previously, the rumored Windows 11 SE has been released. As the rumors said, this version is for educational users and will have some limitations in terms of functionality.
But what is unexpected is that the new version no longer adopts the Windows 10 S mode, that is, it no longer restricts users to only install approved applications from the Microsoft Store.
After all, there are only slightly better quality apps available in the Microsoft Store. Relying on blocking the app mode to improve security will ultimately only reduce the usability of the device.
Therefore, in the new version, Microsoft no longer restricts application installation methods. Students can also actively download and install Google Chrome as long as the educational institution administrator approves it.
The special feature of Windows 11 SE is that the Microsoft 365 series can be used offline, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, etc.
These applications are authorized by the Microsoft 365 education license. In theory, regular networking is required, otherwise, the license may become unavailable.
The Windows 11 SE version of Microsoft 365 can be used offline. When the student’s computer is connected to the school network, relevant file changes will be automatically synchronized.
Educational institution administrators can manage through batch deployment strategies without touching the equipment. When managing, the equipment will always be in an automatic update state.
For example, the system will automatically update silently during the break to reduce the interruption during class, and at the same time provide the latest security updates and reliability repair updates.
If educational institutions do need to use other desktop software, IT administrators can allow students to download and install software such as Google Chrome after the review.
Microsoft will work with partners to launch a variety of devices equipped with the Windows 11 SE version, these devices are entry-level configurations to provide students with sufficient price concessions.
It has been confirmed that related equipment will be launched including Acer, Asus, Dell, Lenovo, Fujitsu, HP, etc. The CPU also supports AMD and Intel.
Microsoft itself is launching a special device, Microsoft Surface Laptop SE, for parents of students to purchase or educational institutions to purchase in bulk and deploy strategies.
The equipment of related partners will be available in the next few months when students and educational institutions have more choices instead of having to choose hardware provided by Microsoft.
At present, the main equipment in the American education market is dominated by Apple and Google. Based on the experience of previous failures, Microsoft is now releasing a new version and making a comeback.
Microsoft confessed that in communicating with educational institutions, it knew that restricting software installation was impractical, because educational institutions may need to install desktop software to meet their needs.
Of course, although Microsoft did not say here, we all know that this is the dissatisfaction of educational institutions with Microsoft Store applications, and most of the applications are too poor in quality to meet the needs of users.
Therefore, in the new version, Microsoft no longer restricts the installation of desktop software, and it is relatively more flexible for the administrator to review and approve the right of selection after it is handed over to the educational institution.
Of course, although Microsoft has a lot of tricks in the education market, the actual effect seems to be poor. Let’s see if the Windows 11 SE version can grab the market from Apple and Google this time.
