Since the first reports about Windows 10 Cloud surfaced, the idea of a new battle between Microsoft and Google for the low-cost market has gained a lot of momentum. Everything points to Redmond's intention to go after the Chromebook position, but the operating system is only half of the equation. The other half comes through a series of leaked specifications suggesting a quad-core processor, 4 GB of RAM, and more than 10 hours of battery life—parameters similar to those found in the machines certified by Mountain View.
The Education Battle
Microsoft has its eye on education. If we think back, the Redmond giant didn't have to work too hard to push Linux aside and turn Windows XP into the main operating system for millions of netbooks distributed in schools and universities around the world. But with that format retired, Chromebooks stepped in as the direct replacement, offering the overall stability of Chrome OS at a very low cost. Clearly, Microsoft believes it can pull the same trick twice, but this time it's fighting a monster of similar proportions. The bet is based on the aforementioned Windows 10 Cloud, which will only allow apps from the Windows Store, and a special hardware platform that the specialized press has dubbed CloudBook.
Leaked Specifications
For now, there are no images or prototypes of this computer, but the folks at Windows Central leaked a list of specifications that was apparently supposed to stay under embargo until May 2, when Microsoft will hold its #MicrosoftEDU event. The list talks about a quad-core processor, be it Celeron or better, 4 gigabytes of RAM, a minimum of 32 GB of solid-state storage (64 GB for x64), optional touch and stylus support, more than ten hours of battery life, a boot time that doesn't surpass twenty seconds, and a resume from sleep in less than two seconds. These numbers are very similar to what you'd find in a Chromebook today.
The Price Question
The big question is: how much will these computers cost? The average Chromebook sells for $160 (even less if refurbished), and Microsoft can't let OEMs put just anything on the market. If the cuts are too deep, the Windows 10 Cloud experience won't be great. Still, we can't wait for the upcoming event. It won't be as big as other conferences (like BUILD, which starts May 10), but maybe it will make a little noise.
