Microsoft has announced that the Windows App, currently in preview, will be widely available this fall. This app will be the unified client for securely connecting to Windows on any device or app. This includes Remote PC and Remote Desktop Services, but also Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Microsoft Dev Box, and more.
The Windows App is essentially the Remote Desktop app with more features. It connects you to your Windows-based computers, desktops, and virtual environments from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and other computers. The app is a one-stop shop to access files on your home PC or manage cloud-based resources. It also has the features of the apps put into it. There’s also an app preview for anyone wanting to try before it. You’ll likely need to set up Windows App similarly to Remote Desktop, so if you’ve already set your PC up, you shouldn’t need to do anymore than update.
The Windows 365 App, which is only available to organizations, will have an in-place update to the Windows App. Web users will immediately see the new UX and rebranding when they access the app through the new URL. iOS and macOS users will have an in-place update of the Remote Desktop client to the Windows App version. Finally, the Windows App preview for Android will be available in the Google Play Store later this year. There was no timeline given on when a full version would be available for Android users.
Moving everything to the singular Windows App is supposed to simplify the process. It comes with customizable home screens, support for multiple monitors, and USB redirection. It also includes security features like multifactor authentication so you can be safe while connecting to cloud PCs (which are still not available to home users). Microsoft wants a consistent experience across all platforms, similar to Chrome’s use of Material Design updates for a consistent look. Microsoft said it appreciated the feedback it received during the preview, and the feedback helped when making this version.
Source: Microsoft via Thurrott
