Microsoft Discontinues Remote Desktop App Amid Controversy

In a surprising move, Microsoft has announced that it will cease the distribution and support of its Remote Desktop App effective May 27. This application has been a popular tool for accessing Windows computers and applications remotely. However, users who obtained the app through the Microsoft Store will find that it will no longer connect to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, or the Microsoft Dev Box after the cutoff date.

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to the newly branded 'Windows App.' Despite the new app's marketing, many users in Germany have reported that it offers limited functionality compared to its predecessor. The company did not provide an explicit reason for the abrupt discontinuation, leaving many users seeking further clarification.

The Windows App boasts several advanced features, including support for multiple monitors, adjustable display sizes, and customizable visual settings. It also promises seamless transitions between user accounts, optimization for Microsoft Teams, and the ability to redirect to other devices. Additionally, it provides access to a range of Windows services, including Cloud PCs and virtual desktops, all within a unified interface.

However, the Windows App presents numerous drawbacks that have sparked concerns among users. The official blog post recommending the switch highlights these limitations, necessitating a detailed guide for those making the transition. Currently, the app lacks a stable beta version for Android and ChromeOS, and users will find that it does not support Windows 365 Frontline, which allows organizations to provide cloud PCs accessible by multiple users under a single license.

When using the Windows App on Windows, notable restrictions become apparent. It does not support connections to Azure Germany, Azure Government, Azure Virtual Desktop (Classic), or the Azure platform operated by 21Vianet in China. Moreover, Single Sign-On (SSO) with Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) is not supported, nor can users connect to Azure Virtual Desktops via Private Link. Users have also reported difficulties connecting through proxy servers requiring authentication via proxy/HTTP. Additional limitations include the absence of integration with the local Windows Start menu and the inability to reset the app from within the application itself, although this can be done through Windows settings.

Those hoping to use the Windows App via a web browser to bypass these limitations may be disappointed. Similar restrictions apply, including a lack of access to Azure Germany, Azure Government, and various other services. Furthermore, users can only directly access Windows 365 services, and downloading certain .rdp files may prove problematic. For those utilizing Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps, there is a requirement to manually add Windows App URLs by appending .mcas.ms.

To connect to Remote Desktop Services or Remote PCs on either Windows or through the browser, users are currently advised to utilize alternative methods such as RemoteApp and Desktop Connections or Remote Desktop Connection until the Windows App matures.

On macOS, users experience similar limitations when accessing Microsoft Teams through the Windows App, including challenges in adjusting microphone settings and speaker selection during sessions. A workaround, known as HUCA (Hang Up Call Again), has emerged, though it may not be ideal for all users. Additionally, the transition from the Remote Desktop App to the Windows App poses challenges as the new app does not retain saved passwords, requiring a tedious process for each individual password.

For users on iOS and iPadOS, adjustments to camera resolution and orientation can only be made by re-invoking the camera. The Windows App on the Vision Pro headset is limited to managing a single program window at a time, further complicating the user experience.