Microsoft launches a Windows app for iPhones, Macs, and Android devices

Microsoft is launching a Windows app today for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, web browsers, Android devices, and even Windows PCs. The Windows app is essentially a hub for streaming a copy of Windows from a variety of sources, including Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Remote Desktop, and more.

This new unified app has been in testing for nearly a year and includes a customizable homescreen, multi-monitor support, and USB redirection so you can use local devices like webcams, storage devices, and printers as if they were plugged directly in to a cloud PC.

This Windows app is limited to Microsoft work and school accounts, as it's primarily designed for existing users of Remote Desktop clients for Windows and other operating systems to move to. Microsoft has had similar apps for connecting to PCs remotely in Windows for decades, including the Remote Desktop Connection app that still ships as part of Windows 11. These apps, including the new Windows one, are useful for connecting to work PCs from a personal laptop or PC.

There are no signs that Microsoft plans to support consumer accounts with its new Windows app, though. Last year, it was revealed that Microsoft has a long-term goal of moving Windows fully to the cloud to "enable improved AI-powered services and full roaming of people's digital experience."

Windows users can grab the Windows app from the Microsoft Store. It's also available from Apple's App Store for macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. An Android version enters public preview mode today.