Windows 10x is an upcoming variant of Windows 10 which was initially designed for Dual Screen devices such as Surface Neo. However, now Microsoft plans to design and launch it first for Single screen devices. There is no current information about the fact that when it will be available for dual screen devices but the single screen version might become available in 2021. Windows 10x was initially supposed to launch with Microsoft’s new hardware the dual-screen foldable Surface Neo.
Microsoft’s initial announcement for Windows 10x, stated that it will be released in fall 2020 with Surface Neo. However, currently, we have no clue when will the Surface Neo be released. Releasing the Windows 10x initially for single screens devices is confusing for the users as they cannot understand Microsoft Strategy behind it as it was supposed to be a companion for Windows 10, not a replacement.
Leaving that aside the future of this operating system is still unknown. Here we will discuss what is Windows 10x and how it differs from Windows 10.
Features of Windows 10x
The emulator image of Windows 10x still shows the dual-screen variant. The preview of a single screen variant might become available later. Here are some key features of Windows 10x
New Look.
It provide a new look with revamped start menu taskbar and quick access etc.
A new file explorer that is completely revamped.
However, a few similarities can be found in features such as Settings.
You can also run any app on dual screens or run two apps on different screens simultaneously.
There are many more features and limitations
Apps in Container and Win32 Support to Improve Security and battery.
Unlike Windows 10 S which didn’t allow the Win32 apps to run, Windows 10x provides compatibility with Win32 apps. As per Microsoft, these apps will run in a container with system-defined window placement. The reason behind it to provide better security to the end-user. This feature will allow the Windows 10x to devices to save battery as the apps are confined to containers. The Windows core files are now isolated from the apps you install will not be able to mess with the system files. Other than this the apps will not run the background even if you just minimize it to save battery life.
Windows 10x and the Future
Initially, Windows 10x was developed for dual-screen devices but now with the announcement of releasing a single screen version first. It seems that it might come as a replacement for Windows 10, especially for laptop users as it is more secure and battery efficient. However with the limitations imposed on this OS, it might not be beneficial for many end-users who love to optimize and modify Windows according to their taste.
The public response towards this operating system is mixed and will find more about it after release. However, with the advent of new technology if fold able devices become a new norm this can be a very impactful addition from Microsoft. However, will this Windows transition and compete with Android and iOS is another question. Primarily, it is not designed to compete with them but as fold able devices might become a new norm this Windows will have to compete with Android and IOS both.
The release date of Windows 10x and surface neo is Unknown. However, you can try the emulator image of this OS in the Windows Store. You can run this emulator image only on Windows 10 Pro. You have to enable Hyper V to run this image. The image includes the preview for dual screen devices. However, please download the Windows Emulator to run the Image.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. We will update this article as more information becomes available.
