When Microsoft introduced the Windows 365 Link in 2024, it quietly launched a new device category: hardware built exclusively to access a Windows PC running in the cloud.

No local storage.
No traditional app installations.
No user data saved on the device itself.

Everything runs inside Microsoft’s data centers through Windows 365.

Now, Microsoft is scaling that vision beyond its own hardware. Two major partners — ASUS and Dell — have officially joined the Windows 365 ecosystem. Their new devices, the ASUS NUC 16 for Windows 365 and the Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365, are scheduled for release in Q3 2026.

Here’s everything we know so far — and what remains unclear.

A New Category: Cloud-Only PCs Powered by Windows 365

The idea behind Windows 365 hardware is simple but disruptive: instead of running Windows locally, the device acts as a secure gateway to a cloud-hosted Windows PC.

These machines operate using Windows CPC, a lightweight operating system developed specifically for cloud PC endpoints. Users don’t manage files locally, install software, or receive admin privileges. The device’s sole purpose is to establish a secure connection to a Windows 365 cloud desktop.

For enterprises, this means:

• Centralized IT control
• Automatic updates
• Zero local data exposure
• Reduced hardware complexity
• Simplified device lifecycle management

Management is handled via Microsoft Intune, allowing IT teams to configure, monitor, and secure endpoints remotely.

ASUS NUC 16 for Windows 365: Ultra-Compact Cloud Computing

ASUS is no stranger to mini PCs. After acquiring Intel’s NUC division, the company has continued expanding the form factor into new enterprise use cases.

With the ASUS NUC 16 for Windows 365, ASUS is targeting business cloud environments directly.

Ultra-Compact Design

• Approximate volume: 0.7 liters
• Small enough to mount behind a monitor
• Ideal for clean desk deployments and hot-desking

This makes it particularly attractive for offices focused on minimalist, cable-managed setups.

Connectivity and Display Support

The NUC 16 supports:

• HDMI
• USB-C
• USB-A
• Front headphone jack
• Up to three simultaneous displays

Networking includes:

• Wi-Fi 6E
• 2.5 GbE Ethernet
• Bluetooth 5.3

Internal Hardware

ASUS mentions a “latest-generation” Intel processor paired with DDR5 memory but has not disclosed the exact CPU model.

Since processing occurs in the cloud, local performance requirements are modest — responsiveness and stable connectivity matter more than raw compute power.

Like other Windows 365 endpoints, it runs Windows CPC and is centrally managed through Intune.

Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365: Silent and Fanless

Dell takes a slightly different approach with the Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365, prioritizing silent operation.

Completely Fanless Design

This desktop is built without a cooling fan, making it:

• Fully silent
• Ideal for medical offices
• Suitable for quiet open-space environments
• Practical in customer-facing installations

The chassis remains compact and offers multiple mounting options to fit seamlessly into professional workstations.

Energy-Efficient Intel N-Series Processors

Instead of high-performance chips, Dell uses Intel N-series processors, designed for efficiency rather than heavy workloads.

That decision makes sense: all demanding tasks run inside Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure.

Display and Connectivity

Like ASUS’s model, Dell supports up to three monitors and includes accessible front-facing ports for peripherals.

Security by Design: No Local Storage

Security is one of the strongest selling points of Windows 365 cloud PCs.

The Dell Pro Desktop emphasizes:

• Zero local storage
• No user data saved on device
• No traditional attack surface

Authentication is handled through Microsoft Entra, allowing:

• Passwordless login
• FIDO2 security keys
• Microsoft Authenticator app authentication

ASUS follows the same authentication framework.

This architecture dramatically reduces risks related to device theft, ransomware targeting endpoints, and unauthorized local access.

Windows CPC: The Invisible Operating System

Both devices rely on Windows CPC, Microsoft’s minimal cloud endpoint OS.

Unlike Windows 11 or traditional enterprise installations, Windows CPC:

• Does not allow local app installations
• Does not permit file storage
• Does not provide local admin access
• Updates automatically in the background
• Requires no user interaction for maintenance

It simply boots, authenticates, and connects to a Windows 365 cloud PC session.

New Windows CPC Features Coming in Q2 2026

Microsoft has announced two upcoming improvements:

1. Bluetooth Support During Initial Setup

Users will be able to connect wireless keyboards, mice, and headsets during first-time setup — no additional configuration required.

2. Customizable Enterprise Login Screens

Companies will be able to display:

• Their logo
• Organization name
• Custom background image

This replaces the default Windows interface and strengthens corporate branding across deployed devices.

Availability and Market Rollout

Both new cloud PCs are expected in Q3 2026.

• ASUS NUC 16 for Windows 365: Launching initially in Europe and the United States.
• Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365: Planned rollout across 58 countries.

Meanwhile, Microsoft’s original Windows 365 Link device (launched in 2024) is already available in 20 countries through Microsoft and authorized resellers.

Pricing: The Big Unknown

As of now:

• No pricing has been announced by ASUS.
• Dell has not revealed pricing details.
• Full technical specifications remain incomplete.

ASUS has not confirmed the exact Intel processor model inside the NUC 16.

More information may arrive at upcoming industry events or closer to launch.

Important: Windows 365 Subscription Is Sold Separately

Owning the hardware is only part of the equation.

A Windows 365 subscription is required to use these devices. Pricing varies depending on:

• Cloud PC performance tier
• RAM allocation
• Storage capacity
• Virtual CPU configuration

The subscription cost is billed separately by Microsoft.

Why Cloud PCs Could Reshape Enterprise IT

Cloud-only PCs represent a fundamental shift in endpoint strategy.

Instead of maintaining powerful local machines, enterprises deploy secure, low-maintenance terminals while:

• Moving compute workloads to the cloud
• Centralizing data control
• Simplifying hardware refresh cycles
• Enhancing security compliance

For hybrid workforces, remote teams, and highly regulated industries, this model offers predictable costs and simplified IT operations.

Final Thoughts

With ASUS and Dell entering the ecosystem, Microsoft’s Windows 365 hardware strategy is clearly expanding.

The ASUS NUC 16 brings ultra-compact flexibility.
The Dell Pro Desktop delivers silent, fanless reliability.

Both reinforce a growing trend: the PC is no longer a device that stores your work — it’s simply a secure window into the cloud.

As more enterprises prioritize security, remote access, and centralized management, Windows 365 cloud PCs may become less of a niche experiment and more of a new enterprise standard.