Windows is more than just an operating system: it’s now also an application. As part of the Ignite event, Microsoft introduced a new application for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Windows and web browsers, which allows you to connect to numerous company services from almost any device.
The Windows application replaces the Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop applications, Redmond explained. Additionally, it provides access to Remote Desktop Services and Microsoft Dev Box, and allows you to remotely connect to Windows 10 or Windows 11 computers.
“The Windows app is designed with a customizable home screen to meet your unique workflow needs. You can access Windows across multiple services and remote computers in one place and set the favorites you access most often. And if you use multiple accounts, you can easily switch between them using our simple account switching feature,” the company explains.
Essentially, Microsoft intends for the Windows app to serve unify the various ways to access your operating system that exist today. Either remotely to physical computers with their software, or to cloud solutions via Azure. Although the choice of name is still surprising, as it lends itself to confusion.
What’s new in the Windows app
In addition to making it easier to access your services across multiple devices, the new Windows app offers other exciting new features. The most important thing is, without a doubt, multiple monitor support. Moreover, it supports dynamic and customizable screen resolutions.
Microsoft also mentions that the Windows app allows device redirection. This means that you can remotely access storage media, printers, webcams or audio equipment connected to the accessed computers.
Of course, the application is currently available in preview. This means that not all of its functions are 100% functional. In fact, as we indicated at the beginning, the Windows app can be installed on Windows 10 or 11, iOS/iPadOS 16 or later, and macOS 12.0 or later; However, it is not yet available on Android and it is not specified whether it will ever be implemented.
Those who choose to access a Windows application through a web browser will need to do so from a domain. windows.cloud.microsoft. It is worth clarifying that this option will only be available on the desktop, as it is not compatible with browsers for mobile devices.
Basically, the Windows application allows you to connect only using business accounts. However, there are indications that support for logging in with consumer credentials will be added soon.
A glimpse into Microsoft’s future?
The Windows application takes its first steps, but it may give a glimpse into Microsoft’s future. Redmond officials have focused much of their efforts on moving its flagship operating system to the cloud. A task that has already been launched with Windows 365, a service that allows you to set up a virtual PC over the Internet and use it directly from the browser.
This strategy could even be extended with Windows 12. There are rumors that the company may release its next OS as a subscription service, although they are somewhat controversial. It is a fact that Microsoft will be working on a new variant of its software to directly compete with ChromeOS.
It will be interesting to see if the new Windows app proves useful for to build a bridge between on-premises software and a future entirely focused on the cloud. The push to create a multi-device control center is an interesting approach, at least on paper.
Source: Hiper Textual
I am Garth Carter and I work at Gadget Onus. I have specialized in writing for the Hot News section, focusing on topics that are trending and highly relevant to readers. My passion is to present news stories accurately, in an engaging manner that captures the attention of my audience.
