Microsoft’s new Windows App lets you access your PC from anywhere
Yesterday, Microsoft announced in a blog post that Windows App has finally been released to the general public and is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and web browsers.
In a nutshell, Windows App is a “unified experience” that lets you securely connect to a Windows device from any other supported device. It’s a simplified way to connect via Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Remote Desktop, Remote Desktop Services, or Microsoft Dev Box. That means on most platforms you’ll end up replacing whatever remote desktop app you’re using with Windows App.
But that’s not all it does. Windows App a few more tricks up its sleeve that makes it a nifty tool for both IT professionals and home users.
What can Windows App do?Windows App is ultimately aiming to be a one-stop shop for efficiently managing the content on your connected Windows devices. According to Microsoft, it’s also fitted with advanced security functions so you can work securely from any location and still have peace of mind.
In the blog post, Microsoft shared one user’s experience with Windows App and what they thought of it:
“We’ve been using Windows App through the private and public previews, and we were given the opportunity to submit recommendations for feature enhancements to ensure it has the functionality we need. During our recent go live, we received great feedback: it provides seamless access from any device and massively improves our end-user experience.”
Suppose you’re commuting to work or traveling on vacation but you need to read or edit important documents on your PC. Windows App makes it easy to remote in and access those files in a snap.
Other features include:
- Unified access to multiple Windows services from one interface (including cloud PCs, virtual desktops, and local PCs)
- Multi-factor authentication
- Customizable start screens
- Support for multiple monitors and dynamic resolutions
- USB redirection
- Optimizations for Microsoft Teams
- Easy account switching via Microsoft Entra ID
- Relayed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Shortpath
- In-app feedback function
Windows App is now available via the respective app stores for each device platform. Microsoft recommends that IT administrators use the “Get started with Windows App” documentation to update internal processes and guide users and helpdesk teams.
If you want to use the app privately and have a Windows device, you can simply download Windows App on the Microsoft Store. You can also access Windows App directly in a web browser for a seamless connection without having to install any software. Windows App is also available on the Google Play Store and on the Apple App Store.
Note that Windows App can only be used with Microsoft accounts and suitable cloud services, and not with third-party services.
Further reading: The best remote desktop software, compared