Microsoft is ditching Windows 11 SE, a special version of the operating system designed for low cost computers in schools. It's effectively a surrender in a battle against Google Chrome for the education market.

Windows 11 SE debuted a few weeks after the main system and was a rough equivalent to the special Windows 10 S system, though with one fundamental difference. Windows 10 S only let users install apps from the Windows Store rather than through direct download from third parties. Windows 11 S doesn't include access to the Windows App store and has no way for users (intended to be pupils) to install software, instead leaving it solely to administrators (such as school IT staff) to control what's on a device.

Chrome Rival

As with Windows 10 S, the look and feel of Windows 11 SE differs from the main Windows 11. Although multiple apps can run at once, it's only normally possible to display two windows at the same time on a split-screen. It also comes with the online Microsoft 365 version of Office pre-installed, while the default save location is through the OneDrive service, rather than on the device's hard drive.

There's a clear similarity in approach to Google Chrome OS, which powers Chromebooks. Because the basic setup of Chrome is to use an Internet connection and have most apps do processing online rather than on the computer, it's possible to make lower-specification and thus cheaper computers. That particularly appeals to schools. (Source: theverge.com)

Not only did several major manufacturers make Windows 11 SE computers, but Microsoft itself released a special version of its Surface Laptop running the system, costing just $249.

No Major Updates Left

Microsoft now says that not only is it dropping support for Windows 11 SE in October 2026 (meaning no more security updates), but that it won't get the major 25H2 update for Windows 11 later this year. In other words, any updates to Windows 11 SE from now on will be minor fixes. (Source: windowscentral.com)

Microsoft notes that the devices will continue to work after next October, but recommends switching to other devices to "ensure continued support and security." Perhaps unsurprisingly it suggests those should be devices that support the regular Windows 11.

Schools now face the unenviable choice of using potentially insecure and unsupported machines, or buying new computers. It wouldn't be surprising if those which do replace existing hardware opt for Chromebooks after having their loyalty to Microsoft strained by this move.

What's Your Opinion?

Was Microsoft smart to pull the plug if Windows 11 SE wasn't a big success? Should schools buying computers expect an operating system to be supported more than a few years? Does it matter what system schools choose for their computers?