Tag: Windows 365

  • Asus Unveils First NUC Mini-PC for Cloud Computing

    Asus Unveils First NUC Mini-PC for Cloud Computing

    Key Takeaway

    – Cheaper alternative to NUC 16 Pro with Intel Wildcat Lake processors
    – First “Cloud PC” device designed for Windows 365, requiring constant online connection
    – Available with Windows 365, Windows 11 Home, or Windows 11 Pro
    – Base model includes 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, supports up to 64 GB RAM and 2 TB storage
    – Pricing and availability still unknown

    Asus’s New Mini PC Revealed

    Asus presented the NUC 16 today at Computex 2026 in Taipei. In short, the NUC 16 is a cheaper alternative to the existing NUC 16 Pro (curr. $599) with Intel Wildcat Lake processors. By contrast, the NUC 16 Pro comes with up to the Core Ultra X9 388H from Intel’s Panther Lake generation.

    Cloud-Focused Version Announced

    At the same time, the company has unveiled the NUC 16 for Windows 365. In a press release, Asus describes the latter as its ‘first Cloud PC device’, adding that the NUC 16 for Windows is a purpose-built solution designed for seamless integration with Windows 365. By shifting the entire desktop experience to the cloud, this device eliminates the risks associated with local data storage while providing a secure, responsive, and familiar environment.

    From that wording, it seems that the NUC 16 for Windows 365 operates entirely in the cloud and must always be online to function. However, Asus’ mentions that the mini-PC will be available with Windows 365 or Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro. Unfortunately, the company has not clarified further yet.

    Specifications and Pricing Details

    Setting that aside, the NUC 16 for Windows 365 will be available with the Core 3 304. The slowest option in Intel’s Wildcat Lake family, the Core 3 304 features a single Cougar Cove P-Core and four Darkmont LP E-cores. Also, the processor contains an iGPU with 1 Xe3 core. According to Asus, the NUC 16 for Windows 365 supports up to 64 GB of RAM and 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 storage, too. Only 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage will be included, though. Pricing and availability remain unknown for now, just like the regular NUC 16.


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  • Asus and Dell Launch New Mini PCs for Windows 365

    Asus and Dell Launch New Mini PCs for Windows 365

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 365 is a cloud-based PC solution from Microsoft that operates on a subscription model, reducing hardware demands on local devices.
    2. Dell has launched the Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365, featuring Intel N-series processors, primarily designed to connect to Microsoft’s servers.
    3. Asus introduced the NUC 16 for Windows 365, offering a compact design with space-efficient features and additional specifications like DDR5 memory and various connectivity options.
    4. Asus’s NUC 16 is expected to use a lower-tier processor, although specific details were not disclosed.
    5. For users preferring local systems, the GMKtec M6 Ultra is available at a discounted price on Amazon.

    Windows 365 is, as the title indicates, Microsoft’s cloud-based PC solution that operates on a subscription model. This platform enables users to access virtual Windows PCs that are hosted in distant data centers, which in turn lessens the hardware demands on their own devices.

    New Mini PC Offerings

    Recently, both Asus and Dell have jumped into the market, unveiling their own mini PC series aimed at businesses that favor the cloud-supported Windows 365 service over traditional local setups.

    Dell has introduced the Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365, which is equipped with Intel N-series processors. The Alder Lake-N series includes various options, from the dual-core N50 to the more robust octa-core Core 3-N305. Nevertheless, the main function of this desktop is simply to connect to Microsoft’s servers, so performance specifics may not be a significant concern.

    Compact Design from Asus

    In contrast, the Asus NUC 16 for Windows 365 is designed to be more space-efficient, resembling a conventional mini PC with a volume of just 0.7 liters. According to Liliputing, it shares a similar design with the Panther Lake-powered NUC 16 Pro mini PC. While Asus hasn’t specified the exact processor in the device, it’s reasonable to assume it will be a lower-tier option.

    Asus has provided additional specifications that Dell did not. This system is set to include DDR5 memory, HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and 2.5G Ethernet. However, specific details regarding the USB and HDMI ports were not disclosed.

    Alternatives for Local Users

    For everyday consumers who prefer a local system, checking out the GMKtec M6 Ultra might be a good idea, as it’s currently available with a 33% discount on Amazon.

    Asus and Dell have both entered the cloud-optimized PC market, offering solutions tailored for businesses that need flexibility and performance without the burden of local hardware.

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