Dell and Asus have announced new mini PCs intended for use with Windows 365. These systems will not power themselves, but will simply allow users to operate Windows running in the cloud.
Back 25 years ago the company I worked for was looking into changing the computers for thin clients, then powered by JAVA, aaand of course dynamic workplaces that gets reinvented every seven years or so.
In the end they decided not to because people wanted to feel that they had their desk with their computer and not a floating office limbo as daily reminder that they are replaceable labour.
But most of all, their stationary computer had a CD ROM so they could listen to their own music while working and the thin clients couldn’t even customise your wallpaper.
You aren’t wrong. But what you just described is exactly why most companies choose thin clients.
No customization, no unauthorized software installs, no distractions for staff and they will just run forever without major updates. All IT has to do is maintain a server or offsite cloud environment.
Would I personally want one… no. But I can see this as an alternative to non techie people who just need a cheap computer for email, web browsing and the occasional word document.
Walk into any office or business that runs off the cloud or a local server and they will likely have dozens… I mean dozens of these lying around.
I know the gaming community looks at these like a vampire looks at a rosary but it isn’t new tech or even a new concept.
Back 25 years ago the company I worked for was looking into changing the computers for thin clients, then powered by JAVA, aaand of course dynamic workplaces that gets reinvented every seven years or so.
In the end they decided not to because people wanted to feel that they had their desk with their computer and not a floating office limbo as daily reminder that they are replaceable labour.
But most of all, their stationary computer had a CD ROM so they could listen to their own music while working and the thin clients couldn’t even customise your wallpaper.
You aren’t wrong. But what you just described is exactly why most companies choose thin clients.
No customization, no unauthorized software installs, no distractions for staff and they will just run forever without major updates. All IT has to do is maintain a server or offsite cloud environment.
Would I personally want one… no. But I can see this as an alternative to non techie people who just need a cheap computer for email, web browsing and the occasional word document.