In order to enhance remote accessibility by transforming Windows into a universal app, Microsoft introduced Windows App compatible with iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Windows, and web browsers. This app is set to replace the Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop applications, offering a more unified and streamlined experience.
It offers a customizable home screen, catering to individual workflow needs, and allows users to access Windows through multiple services and remote PCs from a single interface. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who frequently switch between different accounts and devices.
A key feature is the support for multiple monitors, along with compatibility for dynamic and custom screen resolutions. Moreover, the app facilitates device redirection, allowing users to remotely access storage media, printers, webcams, and audio equipment connected to the remote computers.
Currently, the Windows App is in a preview version and is available on Windows 10 or 11, iOS/iPadOS 16 or higher, and macOS 12.0 or higher. Its availability on Android remains uncertain. For web browser access, users can visit windows.cloud.microsoft, though this option is limited to desktops as it’s not compatible with mobile browsers. The app is initially accessible only through enterprise accounts, but there are plans to extend its support to consumer credentials.
The introduction of the Windows App and the ongoing development of Windows 365 Cloud PC suggest a future where Microsoft’s operating system and services are more integrated, cloud-based, and accessible across multiple devices. This strategy could intensify with the rumored launch of Windows 12, potentially offered as a subscription service and positioned as a direct competitor to ChromeOS.
