Microsoft has announced it will discontinue support for Windows 11 SE in October 2026, marking the end of its latest attempt to challenge Google’s Chrome OS in the education market. The lightweight operating system, introduced in 2021, was specifically designed for low-cost laptops used by schools and other educational institutions.
The company revealed its decision in a recently updated support document, stating: “Support for Windows 11 SE — including software updates, technical assistance, and security fixes — will end in October 2026. While your device will continue to work, we recommend transitioning to a device that supports another edition of Windows 11 to ensure continued support and security.”
Windows 11 SE will not receive Microsoft’s upcoming 25H2 feature update, meaning that supported devices will remain on version 24H2 until the product reaches its end of life.
A targeted attempt to rival Chrome OS
Microsoft introduced Windows 11 SE as a simplified version of its full operating system, tailored for classroom environments. The OS came preinstalled on a range of affordable laptops manufactured by companies including Acer, Asus, Dell, Dynabook, Fujitsu, HP, JK-IP, Lenovo, and Positivo. Microsoft itself launched the Surface Laptop SE in 2021, priced at US$249, as a flagship device for the platform.
The goal was clear: to offer schools an alternative to Chromebooks by creating a locked-down environment focused on web-based applications and simplified management. In practice, Windows 11 SE encouraged the use of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) over traditional Windows applications and restricted Win32 apps unless IT administrators configured specific permissions. Microsoft also maintained a curated list of approved applications for the operating system.
However, the effort did not gain the traction Microsoft had hoped for, echoing previous missteps such as Windows 10’s S Mode. That version also aimed to lock users into the Microsoft Store ecosystem. Still, it proved unpopular due to the limited availability of apps and the frustrating experience it created for both users and administrators.
A changing landscape in educational devices
Microsoft’s decision comes amid broader changes in the education and budget laptop market. While Chromebooks initially gained traction due to their affordability and integration with Google services, recent market shifts have led to a decline in their popularity. A 2023 report by Gartner noted that Chromebooks were “losing market share due to their limited customer base and inferior build quality.”
Chromebook shipments have continued to fall since 2022, and analysts suggest that the current PC refresh cycle is leaning more towards Windows 11 upgrades rather than a migration to Chrome OS. Despite this, Microsoft appears to be stepping back from competing directly in the lightweight OS segment, potentially consolidating its focus on the broader Windows 11 platform.
The company’s recommendation to transition to another edition of Windows 11 reflects this shift in strategy, with educational institutions encouraged to adopt standard versions of the OS for future-proofing and ongoing security.
While the devices running Windows 11 SE will remain functional beyond 2026, they will no longer receive updates or technical support, effectively signalling the end of the line for this particular version of Windows in education.
