Microsoft has announced that support for its Remote Desktop app will end on May 27, 2025. Users are encouraged to transition to the new Windows App to continue accessing services like Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box.
Key Features of the New Windows App
The Windows App introduces several enhancements over the previous Remote Desktop app:
- Unified Access: Provides a single interface for multiple Windows services, including Cloud PCs and virtual desktops.
- Enhanced Functionality: Offers customizable home screens, multimonitor support, and dynamic display resolutions.
- Optimized Performance: Features device redirection, Microsoft Teams optimizations, and easy account switching to improve the remote work experience.
How to Transition to the Windows App
To ensure uninterrupted access to Microsoft’s remote services, follow these steps to transition to the Windows App:
- Uninstall the Remote Desktop App:
- Navigate to the ‘Apps & Features’ section in your system settings.
- Locate the Remote Desktop app, select it, and choose ‘Uninstall’.
- Download and Install the Windows App:
- Visit the Microsoft Store.
- Search for ‘Windows App’ and click ‘Install’ to download and install it on your device.
- Configure the Windows App:
- Launch the Windows App after installation.
- Sign in using your work or school Microsoft account.
- Set up your remote connections as needed.
Considerations During the Transition
- Feature Limitations: Some functionalities from the Remote Desktop app may not yet be available in the Windows App. Review Microsoft’s list of known issues and limitations to understand any potential challenges.
- Alternative Solutions: If the Windows App does not meet all your requirements, consider other remote access tools such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
