Microsoft Windows 365 Link Cloud PC device launched with these features
Microsoft Windows 365 Link Cloud PC was unveiled by the company on Tuesday. The company’s first Cloud PC device lets users quickly and securely connect to Windows 365. Microsoft’s new compact PC is similar to Apple’s Mac Mini M4, although there are differences in how the devices function. The PC is built thin and light and runs on a cloud-based version of Windows 11. The Windows 365 Link offers dual monitor connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and more similar to the Mac Mini. It will be available in April 2025.
Microsoft Windows 365 Link Price, Availability
Windows 365 link, announced at the Microsoft Ignite event 2024, will go on sale in select markets starting April 2025 with a price tag of $349 (approximately Rs. 30,000).
However, Microsoft is allowing organizations in Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the UK and the US to sign up for the Windows 365 Link preview program. Interested users in these regions can contact their Microsoft account team and request to join the preview program before December 15, 2024.
The launch of Windows 365 Link comes a month after Apple unveiled its new Mac Mini M4. The latter starts at Rs. 59,900 in India for the base model. The version with the M4 Pro chip costs Rs. 1,49,900.
Microsoft Windows 365 Link Specifications
The Windows 365 Link runs a cloud-based version of Windows 11 and houses an undisclosed Intel processor with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The device designed for business customers – especially desk workers – offers support for dual 4K monitors, along with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. It supports high-quality video playback and conferencing.
Microsoft says it is working to support high-fidelity meetings with partner solutions such as Cisco’s Webex. The Windows 365 Link comes equipped with three USB Type-A 3.2 ports, a USB Type-C 3.2 port, an HDMI port, a DisplayPort, a 3.5mm headphone jack, an Ethernet port, a Kensington lock port, and a port for the power cord.
The Windows 365 Link has a locked down operating system with no local data or apps and no local administrators. Microsoft states that eliminating local data and apps and administrative rights reduces the chance of malware. It offers passwordless authentication using Microsoft Entra ID. Features such as Secure Boot, the dedicated Trusted Platform Module, Hypervisor Code Integrity, BitLocker encryption, and the Microsoft Defender for Endpoint detection and response sensor cannot be disabled, which further helps keep the device secure.
Organizations using Windows 365 with Microsoft Intune and Microsoft Entra ID and who meet existing Windows 365 requirements are eligible to use the Windows 365 Link. It is compatible with wired and wireless peripherals, monitors, audio devices, input devices such as keyboards and mice, cameras, storage devices and hubs. The Windows 365 Link measures 120x120x30 mm.
