Windows 10 S is becoming Windows 10 S Mode

MICROSOFT IS REVISING ITS APPROACH WITH THE LIGHTWEIGHT VERSION OF WINDOWS.

CHANGES ARE COMING to Windows 10 S — the stripped-down, lightweight operating system that’s said to provide improved battery efficiency and security, albeit at the expense of the platform’s traditional openness. For one, it’s getting a new name, with the OS said to become Windows 10 S Mode in the not-too-distant future.

That’s according to the Microsoft watchers at Thurrott and Neowin, who say the company wants to rebrand the software to better fit into its portfolio of products. The new S Mode OS will soon be available on most versions of Windows, limiting users to apps downloaded through the Windows Store, with an unlock option available for the full version of the software.

Apparently, if you’re running Windows 10 Home in S Mode, you’ll be able to upgrade to the full desktop experience for free, while those with Windows 10 Pro in S Mode are going to have to cough up US$49 for the privilege of unlocking. Microsoft has remained mum on the matter, stating: “We’ll share more about what’s next for Windows 10 S when we’re ready.”