Microsoft has launched a new Windows app for a range of devices, including macOS, iOS, iPadOS, web browsers, Android/Chrome OS devices and Windows PCs. This app serves as a central hub for streaming Windows from various sources, such as Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Microsoft DevBox, Remote Desktop Services and Remote PC.
The integrated app, which has been in testing for nearly a year, features a customisable home screen, multi-monitor support and USB redirection, enabling users to access local devices like webcams, printers and storage devices as though they were directly connected to a cloud PC.
“With the Windows App, you can enjoy a unified experience that makes it simple for people to connect to the Windows experience they know and love from any device. Enhance productivity with features such as customisable home screens, multi-monitor support, and USB redirection,” the company said.
Microsoft added, “The Windows App also offers advanced security features, including multifactor authentication, to ensure a seamless and robust connection, enabling efficient work from any location at any time.”
Unified access: This app streamlines access to multiple Windows services, including virtual desktops, cloud PCs and local PCs, all within a single platform. By unifying access, it simplifies the user interface and boosts productivity for professionals.
Device and app actions: Manage devices with ease using a range of integrated actions tailored to supported solutions, optimising workflow efficiency.
Support for Windows 365 Frontline Cloud PCs: Benefit from enhanced support for specialised use cases, catering to a wide range of user needs.
In-app feedback: Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365 users can effortlessly provide feedback directly within the app, enabling continuous improvement.
Account switcher for Microsoft Entra ID: iOS and macOS users can conveniently switch between accounts using the built-in Microsoft Entra account switcher.
Relayed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Short path: Enjoy improved connectivity and performance for remote sessions, ensuring a smoother user experience during remote access.
Customisable and enhanced experience: Personalise your interface with customisable home screens, and leverage features like Microsoft Teams optimisations, device redirection, and easy account switching for a seamless remote work environment.
Currently, the Windows app is available exclusively for Microsoft work and school accounts, targeting existing remote desktop users across Windows and other platforms. While Microsoft has long offered remote PC connection apps, this new app brings a more unified platform, allowing users to connect to work PCs from personal devices. The app is available for download on the Google Play Store and other platforms.
