According to a recent report, Microsoft is looking to take on Google’s Chromebooks with a new range of budget Windows 10 notebooks which will retail for around $149.
The news comes in a report from Digitimes, which states that Microsoft has two new budget notebooks on the way. Both will apparently come with an 11.6-inch display.
Both notebooks adopt Intel’s Bay Trail-T CR (BTCR) processors, while the one for educational purposes will be manufactured with Elitegroup Computer Systems’ (ECS) help and will be sold mainly through the education channel that Intel and ECS built for their Classmate PC products. The end price for the product is estimated to be US$179.
Targeting the Education Market
One of the key strategies for Microsoft with these new budget notebooks is to target the education market. The collaboration with Elitegroup Computer Systems (ECS) and Intel is particularly noteworthy. ECS has a strong presence in the educational sector, thanks to their Classmate PC products, which are designed specifically for students. By leveraging this existing channel, Microsoft aims to make significant inroads into schools and educational institutions that are currently dominated by Chromebooks.
The educational notebook will be priced slightly higher at $179, reflecting its specialized features and robust build quality designed to withstand the rigors of daily student use. This move is seen as a direct challenge to Google’s Chromebooks, which have become increasingly popular in schools due to their affordability and ease of use.
Specifications and Features
While the report does not delve deeply into the specifications of these new Windows 10 notebooks, the use of Intel’s Bay Trail-T CR (BTCR) processors suggests that these devices will be capable of handling basic computing tasks efficiently. The 11.6-inch display size is also a strategic choice, balancing portability with usability. This size is particularly popular in the education sector, where devices need to be small enough for students to carry around but large enough to provide a comfortable viewing experience.
In addition to the processor and display, we can expect these notebooks to come with other standard features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, USB ports, and possibly even touchscreens, given the increasing trend towards touch-enabled devices in the education market. The inclusion of Windows 10 as the operating system will also provide a familiar interface for users, along with access to a wide range of educational software and applications.
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The introduction of these budget Windows 10 notebooks could have a significant impact on the market. By offering a low-cost alternative to Chromebooks, Microsoft is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the budget notebook segment. This move could also encourage other manufacturers to produce more affordable Windows 10 devices, further increasing competition and driving down prices.
Moreover, the focus on the education market is a smart strategy. Schools and educational institutions are always on the lookout for cost-effective, reliable computing solutions, and Microsoft’s new notebooks could meet this demand effectively. If successful, this initiative could pave the way for more educational partnerships and collaborations, further solidifying Microsoft’s presence in this important sector.
Microsoft is expected to launch these budget Windows 10 notebooks around the middle of the year, with prices ranging from $149 to $179. As soon as we get more details on exactly what Microsoft has planned for these new budget notebooks, we will let you guys know.
Source DigiTimes
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