This site may earn affiliate commissions from the links on this folio. Terms of use.

Windows 10

Microsoft has a history of confusing Windows version branding. That started with the launch of Vista, which came in roughly 16 variants. Windows 10 has its own annoyances, including the locked downwards Windows 10 S. That version might not be long for this world, according to a new report. Microsoft could be looking at a revamping of its Windows versions that would eliminate 10 South as its own OS, relegating information technology to a feature in other versions.

Windows 10 Southward was announced last May with an interesting premise. Windows 10 Southward would only run apps that shipped with Windows and those downloaded from the Windows Shop. None of those EXE files floating around on the internet will install on Windows 10 Southward. As such, background processes are kept under control for improved battery life. Still, if you can't even install Chrome on a reckoner, a lot of users won't exist interested. Yet, Microsoft made Windows x S the default installation on the Surface Laptop.

According to Windows blogger Paul Thurrott, Windows x Southward is going away equally a singled-out version of the OS. Windows 10 Abode editions volition exist dissever into Windows 10 Home, Windows ten Home in Southward Mode, and Windows 10 Home Advanced. The first devices running Windows x Home Avant-garde will evidently begin showing up in May, but we don't know what "Avant-garde" features will fix information technology apart from the other versions.

Windows 10 Home will become an S Fashion feature, which was already included in Windows x Pro. When in S mode, Windows 10 Home will operate just like Windows x S does. The only apps allowed to run are preinstalled Windows apps and those obtained from the Windows Store.

The Surface Laptop with 10 S.

So, what will become of Windows 10 South? Thurrott suggests that Microsoft will allow users of 10 S upgrade to Home for gratis. In the past, Microsoft said it would charge everyone except students $49 to upgrade. Although, information technology'south all the same gratuitous for everyone right now. Presumably, future laptop shipments will stop including Windows 10 Due south.

Microsoft probably sees this move equally a style to get away from all the bad press for 10 S, but it risks making Windows ten versions besides complicated. It's not as befuddling as Windows Vista, simply it'due south not exactly straightforward, either. Another issue might be the cost. The new Windows 10 Home Advanced will most likely toll OEMs a little more than, but information technology's unclear how much of a price increase consumers will see. This could add to the price of already expensive loftier-stop PCs. OEM discs purchased at retail will likely be more spendy besides.