Microsoft plans to eventually move Windows to the cloud

How would you like to boot into a cloud-based Windows instance instead of a local one? Microsoft is working on it.

Currently, Microsoft offers Windows 365, an enterprise service that allows users to stream the full version of Windows to devices. (Image: Microsoft)

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Microsoft has a long-term vision of moving Windows entirely to the cloud, allowing users to access a full-fledged operating system that can be “streamed” from the cloud to any device. The company is already making progress in this direction for its commercial customers, and it intends to do the same for regular users as well.

This was revealed in an internal Microsoft presentation from June 2022, which was disclosed as part of the ongoing FTC vs Microsoft trial. The presentation also stated that the company wants to introduce “new OS innovations” to increase the popularity of Windows.

Currently, Microsoft offers Windows 365, a service that allows users to stream the full version of Windows to devices. This service is currently available only for enterprise customers, but Microsoft has been integrating its features into Windows 11 directly. A future update will reportedly include Windows 365 Boot, a feature that will give users the option to boot into a cloud-based Windows instance instead of the local one.

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In addition to the cloud migration, Microsoft also emphasised the importance of investing in custom silicon partnerships in one of the slides. Microsoft is reportedly exploring the possibility of designing its own ARM-based processors for servers and possibly even Surface devices. Apple, which has already done so for its Macs, has seen significant improvements in performance and battery life after switching to ARM with the M1 Silicon.

On the commercial side, Microsoft’s long-term opportunities include increasing the adoption of cloud PCs with Windows 365. Another slide mentioned the need to “strengthen Windows commercial value and counter Chromebook threat.”.