News
Windows App Released for Microsoft, Apple Devices
- By Gladys Rama
- September 19, 2024
Windows App, a new interface for remotely accessing various Microsoft services, is now generally available.
The app supports Windows, macOS, iOS and iPadOS devices, and it can also be accessed via Web browser. Android support is currently in public preview.
"Windows App provides a consistent, reliable experience for all devices, enabling secure access from any location," Microsoft said in a blog post Thursday announcing the product's general availability.
In preview since November 2023, Windows App lets end users and IT pros view and manage multiple Microsoft services from a single pane of glass. These services include Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Remote Desktop, Remote Desktop Services and Microsoft Dev Box.
Users can "pin" the apps relevant to them on the Windows App home screen for easy access. The display can also be configured for multiple monitors.
[Click on image for larger view.]
Pinned apps in Windows App. (Source: Microsoft)
New in the general release is integration with Relayed RDP Shortpath, which also became generally available on Thursday. This integration with Windows App ensures "improved connectivity and performance for remote sessions," Microsoft explained.
Also new is support for "Cloud PCs" running Windows 365 Frontline. A Cloud PC is a virtual machine connected to Windows 365.
Additional capabilities include the ability for Apple device users to switch between accounts via Microsoft Entra, "integrated actions" to facilitate device management, and the ability to provide feedback to Microsoft from within the app.
Notably, Microsoft said Windows App will replace the Remote Desktop client on Windows and Apple devices, as well as on Web browsers.
"To prepare for the transition to Windows App, we recommend that if you're an IT admin you use the Windows App get started documentation to update internal processes and create guidance for your users and helpdesk teams," Microsoft said. "If moving users to Windows App is preferred, you can refer to the Windows App documentation for admins."