Microsoft has just announced during its Ignite 2024 conference a new mini PC with dimensions similar to Apple’s Mac mini. Called Windows 365 Link, this compact $349 device stands out radically from its competitor with its 100% cloud approach, since it can only work when connected to the internet. A bold strategy that raises questions.
A minimalist mini PC that puts everything on the cloud
The Windows 365 Link comes in the form of a small black box with dimensions comparable to the Mac mini. But the comparison ends there: while Apple’s computer features the powerful M4 chip, Microsoft has opted for a minimal hardware configuration with an unspecified Intel processor, 8 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage.
The reason? This mini PC is actually just a lightweight terminal intended for streaming Windows from the cloud via the Windows 365 service. “We want the device itself to be as transparent as possible,” explains Pavan Davuluri, head of Windows and Surface at Microsoft. The embedded OS is ultra-locked and only allows applications from Microsoft to run, like the S versions of Windows.
On the connectivity side, we find a USB-C port, two USB-A 3.2 ports, DisplayPort, HDMI and Ethernet, as well as WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Enough to connect two 4K screens and various peripherals, although actual performance will depend on the quality of the internet connection.
A strategy that raises questions regarding the Mac mini
At $349, to which must be added a Windows 365 subscription (from $28 per month), this mini cloud PC raises questions about Apple’s proposal. For just $250 more, the Mac mini M4 offers a truly powerful, standalone computer capable of operating without an internet connection. This total dependence on the internet and the cumulative cost of the device and subscription could slow down adoption. Especially since solutions like Shadow PC already offer virtual PCs accessible from any device.
Microsoft mainly targets businesses, highlighting ease of management and enhanced security since nothing is stored locally. David Weston, vice president of security at Microsoft, likens the approach to that of an Xbox: “It’s minimalist and ultra-secure.” Incidentally, we remember the outcry caused by the Xbox One which did not work without an internet connection.
Windows 365 Link will be available in April 2025 in select markets. It will be interesting to see if this “all-cloud” vision will appeal to Apple’s traditional approach, which continues to favor local power with its Mac mini, which has become a benchmark in the compact computer market. Microsoft has certainly understood that it is almost impossible for it to compete with Apple in the mini PC segment, so the company is trying a new approach. Not sure that the initiative will be successful.
