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Microsoft is creating Windows Lite for dual-screen and Chromebook-like devices
Microsoft is preparing a new lightweight version of Windows for dual-screen devices and Chromebook competitors. Sources familiar with Microsoft's plans tell The Verge that the software maker is stripping back its Windows user interface with dual screens in mind. This new hardware could launch as early as later this year, depending on chip and PC maker readiness.
"Windows Lite," as it's codenamed internally, is a more stripped-down version of Windows that is initially being prioritized for dual-screen devices. Intel has been pushing OEMs to create this new hardware category, and machines could appear much like Microsoft's Courier concept, dual-screen laptops, or even foldable displays in the future. Either way, Microsoft wants Windows to be ready for PC makers to take advantage of it.
Previously: Microsoft Reportedly Building a Chromium-Based Web Browser to Replace Edge, and "Windows Lite" OS
Related: Intel Reportedly "Petitioned Microsoft Heavily" to Use x86 Instead of ARM Chips in Surface Go
Qualcomm Announces Snapdragon 8cx, an ARM Chip Intended for Laptops
(Score: 2) by takyon on Wednesday March 06 2019, @12:52AM
Yeah, it is bizarre that Microsoft keeps trying to throw its old advantages out of the window in order to compete, in era of slight but still significant hardware gains at the low-end. ChromeOS is expanding by adding Android and Linux application support, while Windows is trying to punch down to a place everybody is leaving.
However, the dual screen device is interesting, although it doesn't necessarily need to run Windows. Get it cheap enough and it may be worth it to see what more or less it can do than a tablet (note taking, drawing, info display, video, dynamic keyboard, whatever).
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