Microsoft plans to release a new mini-PC specially designed for its cloud service Windows 365. The Windows 365 Link is a $349 device that works as a thin client, connecting to the cloud and streaming Windows 11 to the screen.
Windows 365 Link is compact and fanless. It’s easy to use, designed to connect to your local monitors and peripherals. It’s designed for Microsoft Windows 365, which allows businesses to move workers to virtual machines in the cloud that can be securely accessed from a variety of devices.
Windows 365 Link provides a high level of security. Nothing will run locally on your device except a lightweight operating system designed to provide fast and secure access to your Windows 365 cloud PC.
The Link boots up in seconds, can wake up from sleep instantly, and uses its own chips to process video for Microsoft Teams or Cisco Webex. Microsoft hasn’t yet revealed the exact specs of the Windows 365 Link, but the internal components won’t matter much as the device is designed as a portal to a more powerful cloud PC.
The OS running on Link does not require complex administration and can be easily added to Microsoft Intune with minimal configuration.
It is noted that Windows 365 Link is an ideal option for companies that already use Windows 365, especially as a hot desktop PC, allowing multiple people to use the same device to connect to their own cloud PCs.
Microsoft will not be the only manufacturer of Windows 365 Link devices. The company will expand its cooperation with OEM partners in 2025.
This Link device will also be treated as one of Microsoft’s Copilot Plus devices, a brand that until now has only existed for its own Copilot Plus line of laptops.
«We’re working to bring the capabilities of Copilot Plus and the features that defined Copilot Plus PC to Windows 365 instances in the cloud,» the company explains.
Windows 365 Link is currently in preview mode and will be available in select markets for $349 in April 2025.
Source: The Verge