Microsoft launches Windows apps for all devices

Microsoft is introducing a brand new Windows app today that can run on a variety of devices, from Macs, iPhones, iPads, to Android tablets and phones, and even on Windows PCs themselves. The Windows app acts as a “gateway” that lets you connect to and use a virtual instance of Windows remotely, just as if you were working directly on another Windows PC. You can access Windows from a variety of sources, such as Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, or through a regular remote connection.

This new unified application has been in testing for nearly a year and offers a customizable main interface. With support for multiple monitors and USB redirection, you can easily connect your webcam, portable hard drive, printer, or any other peripheral to your cloud computer as easily as if you were using it directly on your personal computer.

This Windows app is only for people with Microsoft work or student accounts. That’s because it’s designed specifically to help people who are already familiar with accessing their computers remotely via Remote Desktop on Windows or other operating systems. Microsoft has years of experience providing remote connection support tools, most notably the Remote Desktop Connection app that’s built into Windows 11. Both the new app and the old ones are great for when you want to access your work computer from your laptop or home PC.

However, there is currently no information indicating that Microsoft will allow users to use their personal accounts with this new Windows application. According to what has been shared previously, Microsoft is aiming for a larger goal: bringing the entire Windows operating system to the cloud. This means that in the future, Windows will operate mainly on Microsoft servers and be supported by artificial intelligence, helping users experience digital services more seamlessly.

Windows users can download the Windows app directly from the Microsoft Store. It is also available on Apple platforms like macOS, iOS, and iPadOS via the App Store. Additionally, the Android version will officially launch in public beta today, expanding the app’s reach to a larger global audience.