Microsoft is confirming today that it no longer plans to release Windows 10X. The operating was originally supposed to arrive alongside new dual-screen devices like the Surface Neo, with a more lightweight and simplified interface and features. This was all before the pandemic hit, and Microsoft then decided to prioritize Windows 10X for single-screen laptops instead. Windows 10X is now officially over.
“Instead of bringing a product called Windows 10X to market in 2021 like we originally intended, we are leveraging learnings from our journey thus far and accelerating the integration of key foundational 10X technology into other parts of Windows and products at the company,” Microsoft VP John Cable said in a blog post. “In fact, some of this is already reflected in the core of Windows in Windows Insider preview builds, for example the new app container technology we’re integrating into products like Microsoft Defender Application Guard, an enhanced Voice Typing experience, and a modernized touch keyboard with optimized key sizing, sounds, colors and animations.”
Cable goes on to say that Microsoft is looking at other areas where Windows 10X tech could help its customers. Given the company’s disappointing attempt to simplify its OS with Windows 10 S, this latest development doesn’t inspire much confidence. That’s particularly true if you were looking forward to seeing dual-screened Windows PCs.
In brighter news, Cable says the company is now rolling out the May Windows 10 update, which introduces stability improvements, speed upgrades for Windows Defender Application Guard and better support for multiple Windows Hello cameras. Now, your external Windows Hello camera will be set to the default, which is useful when using your laptop in docked mode. The company is also taking a steady approach to rolling out the update, so may not be able to update your device for a few weeks.
