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An early version of Polaris, a canceled Windows Core OS SKU, has leaked online. The version dates from early 2018 and does not include anything other than the base operating system, which means there is no composer (shell) or applications present. Windows Core OS is a modern version of Windows that powers HoloLens 2 and the upcoming Windows 10X, and has been in the works for many years.
We’ve covered the Windows Core operating system extensively in the past, but for those who are out of the loop, the Windows Core OS project aims to create a modular and universal Windows operating system that removes legacy features and components. in favor of contemporary user experiences. As a result, the operating system is more secure and performs better on low-end hardware, with better battery life and faster operating system updates.
Since Windows Core OS has been around for so long, the project has gone through many different phases internally. Originally, Windows Core OS would power the Surface Duo with the Andromeda SKU, as well as laptops and tablets with the Polaris SKU. Polaris was essentially a Windows Core operating system designed specifically for PCs.
Polaris was canceled just as Andromeda was canceled, with both SKUs being replaced by Windows 10X (codenamed Santorini). Polaris would replace Windows 10 S when it was ready as a true modern and lightweight version of Windows 10, with containerized Win32 programs but with the familiar Windows 10 desktop UX.
The leaked version is the RS3 RTM version, but as mentioned above, the actual leak includes very little for DIYers. It doesn’t have a composer, which means there’s no GUI, and there don’t seem to be any built-in apps either. This leak serves two purposes: confirms the existence of Polaris for those who doubt it, and allows enthusiasts to tinker with an old version of Windows Core OS.
Interestingly, the leak is also found in the ARM32 architecture, meaning that it can only boot on older ARM32-based PCs like the Surface RT. Again, Polaris is a canceled edition of Windows Core OS and will never ship, so don’t expect to see this on PCs in the future. Windows 10X is the future of the Windows Core PC operating system and is expected to start shipping to devices later this spring.
Windows Central does not endorse or recommend downloading leaked versions of Windows. Do this at your own risk.
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