Soon, Microsoft may launch Windows Lite for dual-screen hardware
What's the story
Microsoft appears to be prepping a new lightweight avatar of its Windows operating system. Codenamed 'Windows Lite', the new OS is still in the developmental stage and might show up on two-screened laptops or Microsoft's Chromebook competitors, according to The Verge. Details are scant but it's pretty clear that Microsoft is developing software for a completely new hardware category. Here's more.
Windows Lite
Windows Lite being developed with focus on dual-display devices
Since last year, we have been hearing rumors about Windows Lite or Microsoft's alleged Chrome OS competitor focusing on the web. It has been linked with the codename 'Santorini' in the past, and just recently, The Verge confirmed from sources that the OS is being developed with particular focus on dual-screen devices. This could be something like a dual-screened tablet or a dual-screen laptop.
Infrastructure
Windows Lite could be based on 'universal' C-shell
Microsoft is already working on a 'universal' Composable shell (C-shell) to create elements like start menu and notification center with automatic adjustment capabilities for different devices/form-factors. Reports suggest that the Windows Lite OS would be based on this shell and run on top of Windows Core OS (WCOS) which also powers devices like HoloLens 2 or the upcoming Surface Hub 2x.
Mock-ups
And, here's what the OS may look like
There's hardly any information on the working of Windows Lite. But, just recently, Petri's Brad Sams shared a mock-up revealing the current status of the interface. It had three apps pinned at the taskbar and a window offering quick access options, including a search bar and a list of apps. Do note here that the final version could be very different from this one.
Twitter Post
Here's a similar Windows Lite mockup from The Verge
Microsoft is creating Windows Lite for dual-screen and Chromebook-like devices https://t.co/XdDS8Z3h25 pic.twitter.com/zJKdFEG9ip
— The Verge (@verge) March 4, 2019
Dual-screen devices
Microsoft's Centaurus could run Windows Lite
So far, there's no word on the device on which Windows Lite may debut. LG recently unveiled a two-screen device and Intel has also been pushing OEMs to develop machines with two screens. Even Microsoft is said to be working on a dual-screen laptop-type device called Centaurus, which definitely looks like an ideal candidate to run Windows Lite OS, especially considering the latest report.