Last fall, Microsoft introduced the Surface Neo, an exciting dual-screen PC built to offer a new way to work and play with a nimble new version of Windows dubbed Windows 10X. While the current global crisis has forced Microsoft to shift its focus to core Windows products, the company now plans to bring Windows 10X to traditional laptops.

In a blog post shared today (May 4), Panos Panay, chief product officer for Windows and devices, described various new updates to Windows and outlined how Microsoft has adapted to the global situation. While dual-screen devices like the Surface Neo are still on the company's roadmap, Microsoft seems to be focused on better supporting people around the world who suddenly have to work from home.

"As we continue to put the needs of our customers first, we need to focus on responding to them where they are," Panay wrote.

Panay notes that Microsoft is now focusing on "single-screen Windows 10X devices that harness the power of the cloud and help customers work, learn, and play in new ways." He did not give a timeline for when Windows 10X laptops will be available, but the operating system was originally slated to launch by fall 2020.

The idea of a nimble Windows 10 laptop that relies on the cloud sounds like Microsoft's answer to Chromebooks, which rely heavily on web-based applications like Chrome and Gmail and have gained popularity due to their low price. If Microsoft and its hardware partners can roll out a reliable suite of Windows machines for under $400, parents, teachers, and the millions of people who work from home may have a reason to buy something other than an affordable Chromebook.

Panay also outlined the Windows 10 May 2020 update, which will introduce more streamlined Bluetooth connectivity options, a better tablet mode for 2-in-1s, and drag-and-drop functionality for those using eye tracking devices. While we hope this update is free of nasty bugs, recent Windows updates have been plagued with some pretty serious issues.

Finally, Panay mentioned the upcoming Microsoft Build 2020 virtual conference and how it will "make it easier than ever (for developers) to build for all 1 billion Windows 10 devices." Perhaps we will get a better idea of the future of Windows 10X devices at the show.