Microsoft is planning to launch a new purpose-built miniature PC for its Windows 365 cloud service next year. Windows 365 Link is a $349 device that acts like a thin client PC to connect to the cloud and stream a version of Windows 11.

Microsoft has created a $349 device designed to run Windows in the cloud rather than on the hardware itself. Windows 365 Link, announced at the company's Ignite event, is part of Microsoft’s latest effort to expand in the cloud PC market.

A Microsoft Windows 365 Link device with a dual-monitor setup. (Microsoft Photo, click to enlarge.) Microsoft will offer its own device that automatically

Accessing and securing the cloud is a necessity for companies and Microsoft has taken another step by announcing the Windows 365 Link device. According to Microsoft, "it enables desk-based users to work securely on a familiar Windows desktop in the Microsoft Cloud with responsive,

The new Windows 365 Link is a business-focused mini PC able to give users their classic Windows desktop experience on a cloud PC, with everything hosted in Azure, in an easy to deploy and manage low-footprint device.

Windows 365 Link is a new lightweight, fanless, and secure device for using Cloud PCs on up to two monitors. It's launching in preview today ahead of its public release in April 2025.

The Register can reveal the device does not include Surface branding either.

Microsoft is previewing a new PC that's designed to connect corporate workers to their programs and files in the cloud. The Windows 365 Cloud Link is available in limited use in the U.S., Canada and a handful of other countries. It will be for sale in a few markets at $349 in April.

“The launch of Microsoft’s Surface devices previously spurred a wave of innovation among other device manufacturers,” said Downes. “Similarly, Windows 365 Link is expected to ignite advancements in the thin client market, which has seen limited hardware innovation in recent years.”