Microsoft makes a comeback with the Windows 11 SE complete with an all-new Surface Laptop

Microsoft is one of the biggest companies in the IT industry. Microsoft has been attempting for years to recreate Chrome OS’s popularity on lower-end smartphones. Microsoft’s first failed attempt with ARM computers, Windows RT, was released nearly a decade ago.

For now, Windows 10 S Mode attempted to address security issues by restricting app installations, while Windows 10X aimed to simplify the entire operating system. Microsoft, never one to back down from a battle, is back with another Chromebook rival: Windows 11 SE.

Windows 11 SE

Windows 11 SE, which was announced today alongside some new Surface devices, is intended only for educational purposes. There should be no issues about customers being confused if they purchase this platform, eliminating the problems that both RT and S Mode had after their debut. Windows 11 SE is designed from the ground up for kids in grades K through 8 and is optimized for use on low-cost hardware. If this sounds familiar, it’s because this attempt by Microsoft is aimed squarely against Google.

Windows 11 SE has a limited scope as an educational tool. By default, apps launch in full-screen mode, which is intended to reduce distractions in the classroom. You don’t have to rely on local information for assignments and projects because cloud storage is built-in. App installations are similarly restricted, as the only software allowed on these systems is that which has been approved by the administrator.

Although third-party apps such as Zoom and Chrome function with the OS by default, Microsoft prefers that users stay within its ecosystem. To that purpose, Microsoft 365 and Office programs come pre-installed. Applications that remove contacts or other utility functions should not have an issue running on the device.

A new Surface notebook will be released alongside Windows 11 SE to provide educators with a variety of hardware options. With its relatively low-res 720p 11.6" display and curved, hefty body, the Surface Laptop SE looks a lot like other low-end Chromebooks you’ll find in classrooms these days. Microsoft claims a battery life of up to 16 hours, which should be sufficient for use during the school day. It comes with an Intel Celeron N4020 or N4120 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, all for $250.

Wrapping Up

Windows 11 SE is aimed at students and will only be sold through business channels. Still, it’s an intriguing challenger to Chrome OS, essentially taking on Google where its laptops have found the most success. With so many schools now using Chromebooks, it’ll be fascinating to see if Microsoft can get a foothold in this market before it’s too late. However, when compared to Windows RT and S Mode, this version appears to have a lot of potentials.