Microsoft has introduced the Windows 365 Link, which brings a new way to experience Windows 365. It ensures desk-based users a responsive, high-fidelity, and cloud-powered productivity experience. Here are all the details.
Windows 365 Link: Pricing and Availability
The Windows 365 Link will be available globally starting April 2025 for $349 (approx. Rs 29,500). Interested users can request the preview program by reaching out to your Microsoft account team by December 15, 2024.
The program is available in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.
Windows 365 Link: Features and Specifications
The Windows 365 Link is a compact device with a dimension of 120 x 120 x 30 mm, making it ideal for placement on a desk. It sports 3x USB-A 3.2 ports, 1x USB-C 3.2 port, 1x HDMI port, 1x DisplayPort, 1x 3.5mm headphone jack, 1x Ethernet port, Kensington lock port, and a port for the power cord.
The device also sports a port for the power cord and supports Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. It works with wired and wireless peripherals, including dual 4K monitor support. Microsoft reveals that it addresses the issues in shared workspace scenarios, including the complex sign-in processes, peripheral incompatibility, and latency issues.
It is claimed to wake instantly from sleep, allowing users to get started or resume from where they left off. The 365 Link sports local processing capabilities, which include high-performance video playback and conferencing. Microsoft is also working to support high-fidelity meetings with Webex by Cisco apart from Microsoft Teams.
The cloud-powered performance and local processing make it ideal for IT professionals to enhance productivity for desk-based workers. The 365 Link also prioritises security and includes a locked-down operating system with no local data or apps and no local admin users. It makes the device more difficult for hackers to compromise.
The device also supports passwordless authentication using Microsoft Entra ID, allowing users to sign in with multifactor authentication using the Microsoft Authenticator app and more. It also downloads updates in the background and will apply them overnight when the device is not in use.
The Secure Boot, Trusted Platform Module, BitLocker encryption, and other security features can’t be turned off. The device is also sustainable, as it is designed with no moving parts for long-lasting.
