While Shadow is better known for its high-end cloud PCs with a dedicated Nvidia GPU, the company is introducing a new tier called Shadow PC Essential. This offering is targeted towards companies that need a unified work environment, rather than gamers.
What is Shadow PC Essential?
Shadow PC Essential is a computer in the cloud that runs Windows and can be accessed from any device. The cost of this service is $9.99 per month (€9.99 in Europe). This new tier is designed to provide a cost-effective solution for companies that need to provision a large number of users with a unified work environment.
Target Audience
The primary target audience for Shadow PC Essential is companies that need to provide their employees with a standardized work environment. This can include small and medium-sized businesses, as well as larger enterprises. The service can also be used by temporary workers or interns who need access to company resources on their own devices.
How Does it Compare to Microsoft’s Windows 365?
Microsoft offers a similar cloud PC service called Windows 365, which is targeted towards companies that need a unified work environment. However, Shadow’s main advantage comes down to pricing. For $9.99 per month, companies gain access to a PC that can easily run productivity apps, such as Word, Excel, Outlook, accounting or logistics software, etc.
Specifications
Shadow PC Essential comes with an Intel Xeon CPU with four virtual cores (2.5 to 3.1GHz), 4GB of RAM, 128GB of storage (256GB for now) and Windows 10 Home. If you want to use more demanding apps, such as AutoCAD or Photoshop, Shadow recommends that you switch to other subscription plans with a GPU.
Pricing Comparison
Windows 365 starts at $31 per user per month for a CPU with two virtual cores, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The company also offers more expensive plans.
Fleet Management
Shadow is still working on advanced features to make it easier to create images with a preconfigured Windows image for its Enterprise subscription plans (that come with Windows 10 Enterprise). Right now, IT admins still have to create a PC in Shadow’s admin panel and then log in to the cloud instance to configure it with their admin tools and MDM service.
End-User Experience
End users can connect to their cloud PC using one of Shadow’s apps on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, etc. A couple of months ago, the company also launched a web browser app.
Revamping Cloud Computing Offerings in Europe
Shadow is revamping its cloud computing offerings in Europe, targeting companies that need a unified work environment. With Shadow PC Essential, companies can provide their employees with a standardized work environment at a cost-effective price point.
The Benefits of Shadow PC Essential
- Cost-Effective: Shadow PC Essential offers a cost-effective solution for companies that need to provision a large number of users with a unified work environment.
- Unified Work Environment: Companies can provide their employees with a standardized work environment, making it easier to manage and support their IT infrastructure.
- Flexibility: End-users can access their cloud PC from any device, on any platform.
Conclusion
Shadow PC Essential is a cost-effective solution for companies that need to provide their employees with a unified work environment. With its competitive pricing and advanced features, it’s an attractive option for businesses looking to simplify their IT infrastructure.