Microsoft Retires Remote Desktop App

Microsoft is set to sunset its Remote Desktop application on May 27, requiring users to transition to the new Windows App. This shift brings various advantages and disadvantages, and users will need to adapt accordingly.

The Windows App was introduced in 2024 but didn’t receive a warm welcome from users. Microsoft described it as a “unified app” that offers a secure way to connect to Windows services such as Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Remote Desktop, Remote Desktop Services, and Microsoft Dev Box. In essence, the new app serves as a rebranded version of the previous Remote Desktop app, aiming to provide centralized access to multiple Windows services from one consistent interface.

Despite the official messaging, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the rebranding, with one even labeling it “the dumbest rebranding ever.” As the deadline approaches, users will need to prepare for the inevitable transition, as Microsoft plans to remove the Remote Desktop application’s code from the Microsoft Store.

It’s important to distinguish between the Remote Desktop app and the Remote Desktop Connection tool, which has been part of Windows for many years. Microsoft has clarified that the connection methods used by Remote Desktop Connection and Remote Desktop Services are not supported by the new Windows App at this time. Furthermore, users must have a work or school account to utilize the functionalities of the Windows App.

The Windows App offers features such as customizable home screens and support for multi-monitor setups, as well as dynamic resolution scaling. It also optimizes the experience for Microsoft Teams and includes device redirection. However, certain features aren’t available, including support for Private Link connections to Azure Virtual Desktop and local Start Menu integration.

Additionally, Microsoft has indicated that the Windows App may face challenges in specific environments that use proxy servers, especially those requiring proxy/HTTP authentication. Single sign-on capabilities through Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) are also not supported.

As the May 27 deadline approaches, users of the Remote Desktop app need to take action to ensure they can still connect to vital services like Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. Post-deadline, connections through the old Remote Desktop app will be blocked, forcing users to switch to the new Windows App to continue accessing these services. This requirement emphasizes the need for users to adapt to the new app, which, despite its rocky start, is positioned to serve as a gateway to a variety of Microsoft services.