Microsoft introduces the Windows 365 Link, its first Cloud PC device, at Ignite 2024
Although it looks similar to the new Mac Mini, the Windows 365 Link is a very different device.
The device will support up to two displays. Photo: Microsoft.
One of the announcements that came out of Ignite 2024 was that Microsoft is launching a purpose-built device for Windows 365, the Windows 365 Link.
With it, employees can stream their Windows desktop experience from the Microsoft Cloud to any device, much like thin clients used to do.
It feels very similar to the new Mac Mini. Photo: Microsoft.
Marketed as a “Cloud PC”, a Windows 365 Link device will come with dual 4K monitor support, four USB ports, an Ethernet port, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 and offers seamless connectivity with both wired and wireless peripherals. It takes seconds to boot and instantly wakes from sleep, to allow users to continue working from where they stopped. Unfortunately, we don’t have any idea of the processor it uses so information about that will have to wait.
To make it attractive to enterprises, the Windows 365 Link emphasises security as a key feature. The device features passwordless authentication using Microsoft Entra ID, and a locked-down operating system with no local data or apps, and no local admin users. Plus, its security baseline policies are enabled by default. Features like Secure Boot, the dedicated Trusted Platform Module, Hypervisor Code Integrity, BitLocker encryption, and the Microsoft Defender for Endpoint detection and response sensor can’t be turned off, further helping to secure the device.
Microsoft claims that the Link's local processing capabilities are more than sufficient to enable high-performance video playback and conferencing, including high-fidelity Microsoft Teams meetings as well as those from partner like Webex by Cisco.
Pricing and availability
Currently undergoing preview trials in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, Microsoft says that the Windows 365 Link will be available for purchase in select markets at US$349 (~S$467) starting April 2025.
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.