‘Minecraft’ Education Edition Release Date, News & Update: Beta Version Of Microsoft, Mojang Game Now Live In Schools

Microsoft Studios and Mojang AB have gone live with the beta version of the "Minecraft" Education Edition in schools. As part of a two-phased testing, the beta version release of "Minecraft" Education Edition will be followed be followed an "early access" phase in June.

How "Minecraft" Education Edition Is Different 

Thurrot reports that the "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version was released as scheduled to participating schools. According to the media outlet, a peek into the "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version showed a familiar but lesson-friendly iteration of the game.

For one, "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version provides skins that students and educators can use for free. "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version also does away with Realms and Achievements.

Another change in "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version is the switch from the term Friends to Classmates. Investigations by Thurrot also showed indications of the VR and Holograph modes, which may or may not eventually be available for "Minecraft" Education Edition.

"Minecraft" Education Edition Beta Version Condition 

The condition for "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version users is to provide detailed feedback on the learning tool. The beta version will, in turn, allow educators and students to work with the developers to help "Minecraft" Education Edition respond to school learning needs.

Why "Minecraft" Education Edition? 

CNET points out the strength of "Minecraft" Education Edition as part of the learning process for students. According to the media outlet game lends itself to imagination and resourcefulness in a digital environment, which makes "Minecraft" Education Edition a good training ground not just for the arts also for STEM-related skills.

According to WinBeta, Microsoft and Mojang have high hopes for the "Minecraft" Education Edition beta version to add to franchise sales. Most especially in China, where Microsoft and Mojang have a recently firmed up partnership with Chinese company NetEase, "Minecraft" Education Edition is expected to do especially well.