The consumer version of Windows 365 is coming, and it could be cheaper than the business version.
Preview versions of Windows 11 already have the ability to configure “Cloud PC” in the consumer version of the operating system and boot directly into Windows 365. A new version of Windows 365 for consumers could be released soon, probably in the fall.
Pricing for the consumer edition has not been decided, but it will be cheaper than the enterprise edition.
An affordable version of Windows 365 could change the way we use Windows. For example, it could allow you or your family to access their files and favorite Windows apps from any device with Microsoft Edge or other browsers.
Your computer will live in the "cloud" and you will not be connected to specific hardware to use it. This move could revolutionize cloud computing, finally allowing users with low-end hardware to harness the power of high-end cloud systems.
Another advantage of Windows 365 is that it is a cloud-based system managed by Microsoft, so you won't have to look for software updates, security updates, and system maintenance.
Windows in the cloud is not a new project. Windows 365 has been up and running since 2020 and reports of Microsoft's secret Cloud PC appeared in the same year. Codenamed Deschutes, Windows 365 runs inside Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop cloud computing.
Windows 365 currently comes in two packages: Windows 365 Business and Windows 365 Enterprise. The basic plan includes one vCPU, 2GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage, costing $20 per user per month. This package is designed for small businesses, front line workers or call center workers.
The consumer version will probably be cheaper than the business packages. Microsoft was internally considering $10-$20 pricing for the cheapest consumer version of Cloud PC, but we can't confirm the cost as internal plans are always subject to change.
