The rumors were indeed true: Microsoft is working on a simplified version of its Windows 10 operating system. Called Windows 10 S, this particular variant was announced during its on-going event in New York.

As per the event’s theme, the new Windows 10 S is indeed designed for the education segment of the market. While plenty of details have yet been revealed, it was mentioned on stage that the operating system supports all types of Windows PC – from the highest end hardware to entry-level specifications. Not only that, the new Windows 10 S also apparently support upcoming Windows Mixed Reality headsets such as the one made by Acer that we have just experienced last week.

Another distinct characteristic of the new Windows 10 S is that users are only able to install apps from Windows Store. If they want to install a normal application, a notice will come out that suggests other similar apps from Windows Store and the admin of the device need to revert the operating system to Windows 10 Pro if they really need to install that application.

At the same time, Microsoft also claimed that Windows 10 S has faster login speed since they have less app to be loaded during startup. The company have also created Setup My School app alongside Intune for Education in order to help school admins to deploy and manage Windows 10 S PCs within their organizations.

Windows 10 S is available for free later this year for all educational institutions on their existing genuine Windows Pro PCs. Users will able to get their hands on Windows 10 S PCs very soon from OEMs such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, Fujitsu, HP, Samsung, and Toshiba with a starting price of USD 189 (about RM 818).