# Microsoft Unveils the New “Windows App” for Cross-Platform Remote Connectivity
Microsoft has made an official announcement regarding the launch of a new application known as **Windows App**, aimed at delivering a cohesive experience for users seeking access to Windows environments across various platforms. This innovative app is set to supersede the current Microsoft Remote Desktop app on the majority of platforms and comes with improved features for both end users and IT administrators. The Windows App is now accessible for **Windows, macOS, iOS/iPadOS, web browsers**, and is in **public preview for Android**.
## A Cohesive Experience Across Platforms
The **Windows App** is crafted to streamline the procedure of accessing Windows environments, whether they are based on a local machine, hosted in the cloud, or provided through remote services. In the past, users depended on the **Microsoft Remote Desktop** app to link to remote Windows PCs or servers. Nonetheless, the new Windows App enhances this capability by consolidating access to **Windows 365**, **Microsoft Dev Box**, **Azure Virtual Desktop**, and other Microsoft offerings.
### Main Features of the Windows App
1. **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: The Windows App is accessible on an extensive array of platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS/iPadOS, web browsers, and Android (in public preview). This facilitates users in accessing Windows environments from nearly any device, whether it be a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
2. **Consolidated Access**: The app offers a singular interface for accessing various Windows services, including:
– **Windows 365**: Microsoft’s cloud-driven Windows service allowing users to stream a full Windows desktop from the cloud.
– **Azure Virtual Desktop**: A virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) service enabling users to run Windows desktops and applications in the cloud.
– **Microsoft Dev Box**: A cloud-based environment for developers to create, test, and deploy applications.
– **Remote Desktop**: For establishing a connection to a Windows PC or server employing Remote Desktop services.
– **Remote Desktop Services**: For accessing individual applications provisioned by work or educational institutions.
3. **Improved Device Administration**: The Windows App encompasses advanced device management tools for IT administrators, simplifying the processes of device management and security across an organization. This is especially beneficial for companies that need to oversee numerous devices and users remotely.
4. **Account Switching**: The app provides a seamless account switching feature, enabling users to effortlessly toggle between different accounts, such as personal and work accounts, without the requirement to log out and log back in.
5. **Assistance for Frontline Workers**: The Windows App includes provisions for **Windows 365 Frontline**, a specialized version of Windows 365 tailored for frontline workers who may not require a full-time Windows environment but still need access to specific applications and services.
6. **Relayed RDP Shortpath**: The app features support for **Relayed RDP Shortpath**, a function allowing Remote Desktop connections to operate on networks that would generally obstruct such connections. This is especially advantageous for users needing to access remote desktops from restricted networks, like public Wi-Fi.
## Transitioning from Remote Desktop to Windows App
On **macOS, iOS, and Android**, the Windows App will entirely replace the current **Remote Desktop Connection** app. If users have Remote Desktop already installed, it will be automatically updated to the Windows App. Conversely, on **Windows**, the Remote Desktop Connection app will still be available for users who prefer it, while the Windows App will be used for accessing Microsoft’s cloud and remote services.
A notable distinction on Windows is that the Windows App requires users to sign in with a Microsoft account or an organizational account, while on other platforms, the app can be utilized without a user account for certain services.
## Familiar Features Enhanced
For users familiar with the Remote Desktop Connection app, the Windows App maintains many of the original features, such as:
– **Multiple Monitor Support**: Users can connect to remote desktops and utilize multiple monitors, just as they would on a local machine.
– **Device Redirection**: The app supports device redirection for peripherals like webcams, audio input/output devices, and printers, enabling users to engage with remote desktops as though they were local.
– **Dynamic Resolution Support**: The Windows desktop will automatically adjust to fit the app window, easing the transition between different screen sizes and resolutions.
## A Progressive Step for IT Administrators
For IT administrators, the Windows App presents enhanced tools for managing devices and users. The app’s unified interface simplifies the provisioning and management of remote desktops and applications, particularly in settings where users need to access multiple services, such as Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop.
Moreover, the app’s support for **Relayed RDP Shortpath** ensures administrators can guarantee dependable Remote Desktop connections, even on networks that would typically restrict such traffic. This is especially valuable for organizations with remote workers who may need to connect from public or limited networks.
