Windows app: a new way to access Windows on Apple and PC devices
Microsoft unveils Windows app for running its OS on multiple devices, hinting at future plans.
Microsoft introduces Windows app for running its OS on various devices and browsers. The app is an upgraded version of the Windows 365 app that enables users to stream Windows from different sources, such as a remote PC, Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, Microsoft Dev Box, and Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Services.
The new Windows App. Image: Microsoft
Microsoft introduces Windows app for running its OS on various devices and browsers. The app is an upgraded version of the Windows 365 app that enables users to stream Windows from different sources, such as a remote PC, Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, Microsoft Dev Box, and Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Services.
The Windows app supports features like multiple monitors, custom resolution and scaling, and device redirection for accessories like webcams, storage devices, and printers. The Windows app is currently in preview and not available for Android yet.
The Windows App acts as a hub to connect to remote and cloud PCs. Image: Microsoft
The Windows app is currently restricted to Microsoft’s business accounts, but it may soon be open to consumers as well. The sign-in screen on the Windows app on Windows (yes, that’s confusing) indicates that you can use a personal Microsoft Account to access the app, but this feature is not working yet.
Microsoft has been offering apps for remote PC access for a long time, such as the Remote Desktop Connection app that comes with Windows. However, a specific “Windows App” is a new branding strategy that could imply Microsoft’s plans to shift Windows completely to the cloud.
Microsoft formed a new Windows team with a web focus after its former Surface and Windows leader Panos Panay joined Amazon in September. The new “Windows and Web Experiences” team seems to be mainly working on developing AI-powered web services for Windows. Windows 11 has already introduced several web-based features, such as the main search interface that updates from the web, a widgets system, and Copilot integration.
At the FTC v. Microsoft hearing, we found out that Microsoft plans to shift Windows completely to the cloud for consumers, something it has been doing for businesses with Windows 365. The Windows App could be a way for consumers to use cloud PCs and Windows apps on devices that don’t have Microsoft’s operating system.