Microsoft has announced the general availability of the Windows App for Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS and web browsers. It’s also available in public preview for Android, with the final version expected in a few weeks.

If you don’t know what this software is about, don’t worry, skepticism is common and there were already complaints when it was released in beta a few months ago. And Microsoft chose a name that is too generic to name an app that is “simply” (we use quotes because its capacity has increased compared to what we knew) remote desktop solution. Basically, once you connect remotely, you can use another device to connect to your computer and access all your applications, files, and network resources as if you were sitting at your desk.

The Windows app replaces the remote desktop

Microsoft says this app allows “Enjoy a unified experience that makes it easy for people to connect to the Windows experience they know and love from any device”. It works like a secure gateway for connecting to Windows in Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Remote Desktop, Remote Desktop Services, Microsoft Dev Box, and more.

The Windows App promises a consistent and reliable experience for all devicesallowing secure access from any location. The software simplifies the process and allows you to manage and use these resources from a single application. “Whether you’re an IT administrator or an end user, Windows offers tremendous value. IT administrators benefit from improved security and simplified management, while end users can customize their experience to suit their personal workflows..

Microsoft also ensures that the new remote management application Increase productivity with features like customizable home screens; support for multiple monitors; USB redirection; dynamic display resolutions and scaling; optimizing for Microsoft Teams or redirecting devices such as webcams, audio, storage devices and printers. The Windows app also offers advanced security features including multi-factor authentication, as well as a quick way to switch accounts within the app.

Let’s say that with this general availability release, the current Remote Desktop app will be replaced by the Windows app. The software is available through the appropriate repository for each client platform, which should ease the transition or use process for new users. On Windows, it’s available from the Microsoft Store, or if you prefer, you can access the Windows app directly through a web browser without installing software.

Like Remote Desktop, the Windows app is a useful feature in situations where you need to access your computer but physically can’t. However, there are risks associated with its use Just leave it active when you use it.