Know how I keep coming back to Chromebooks periodically? I’m not alone – Microsoft has positioned a new Windows 11 SE as a competitor, along with a new 249 dollar Surface Laptop SE that runs the OS.
Available only on new low-cost devices and only for schools and education, the OS allows an approved list of third party apps beyond Microsoft Edge and Office which includes Zoom and Chrome. The new Surface laptop runs an Intel Celeron, and is designed to be repairable.
Why do we care?
Education market focused providers care a LOT. Broadly, there’s a service offering here even beyond this space.
Microsoft has put a restriction on the offering… but Google has not. I think that’s a misstep alone.. or a precursor to a larger move later. Ignore the Chromebook.. and now Windows 11 SE.. space entirely at your peril. Even if that means simply why it’s not right for the markets you serve, it’s a factor.