“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.”

Windows 365 Link, which the company is touting as the "First Cloud PC devices for Windows 365" will cost $349 (why not $365?) and will be officially available in April. The PC measures 4.72 by 4.72 inches and is 1.18 inches tall, almost half as short and a little smaller as Apple's recently revamped Mac Mini computer .

Announced today at the Ignite developer conference, the new Windows 365 Link gives access to Microsoft's suite of 365 apps on the cloud, and will only cost $349.

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,

Microsoft on Tuesday debuted Windows 365 Link, a tiny $350 computer that will go on sale in April and runs the OS and all applications from the cloud. Why it matters: The new computer is designed for businesses who want devices that are more secure and easier to manage.

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's cloud PCs now have dedicated hardware thanks to Windows 365 Link, a mini PC designed to boot from the cloud with no local data.