AWS launches the Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client: a small computer that allows you to easily connect to the Amazon Workspaces environment in the cloud.

Amazon introduces the Workspaces Thin Client. This is a box that, not coincidentally, resembles the company’s Fire TV Cube like two drops of water. While the Cube is a gadget for consumers, Amazon’s thin client is aimed entirely at a business audience.

The small computer serves only one purpose: to connect to a more powerful PC in the cloud. The thin client is an extension of the Workspaces VDI environment. The thing supports Workspaces, Workspaces Web and Amazon Appstream.

It’s no coincidence that the cube is similar to the Fire TV Cube. The thing is identical inside too. Amazon took over the hardware of the TV product and installed a professional software stack on it. On the hardware side, a thin client doesn’t require too much horsepower, making the small computer ideal for this purpose.

Security and administration

In principle, you can use any computer as a thin client or purchase customized devices from a PC manufacturer. AWS believes its own product offers security and simplicity because it is so seamlessly integrated with the company’s VDI solutions. For example, the device never stores a user’s data locally, reducing the risk of a computer being stolen or lost.

For administrators, AWS offers integration of the hardware into the AWS Management Console. From there, you can easily choose which device gets access to which application. AWS currently only communicates an American target price. It costs $195.