Microsoft has announced a new service that allows you to access cloud-based PCs from anywhere - Windows 365. 2021 looks set to be a defining year for Microsoft. Alongside new Surface hardware, the company is focusing on software in a way we haven’t seen for a long time.
Without a doubt, the biggest announcement so far has been Windows 11. This brand-new version of Windows includes an overhauled design, various new multitasking features and native support for Android apps.
Now, it looks like Microsoft wants to build up the software infrastructure around the new OS. This includes Windows 365, a new business-focused service that the company has just announced. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is Windows 365?In its simplest form, Windows 365 is a new service that allows business customers to access Cloud PCs from anywhere. A similar feature has been available via virtualisation and remote access software in the past, but it’s the first time we’ve seen an official service from Microsoft.
If you’re unsure whether your device is classed as a Cloud PC, there's no need to worry. All Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices will be compatible, and the session can be streamed to hardware running macOS, iPadOS, Linux and Android.
Once set up, it’s a simple case of navigating to the Cloud PC website and signing in – all modern web browsers and Microsoft’s Remote Desktop app are supported.
The timing of this announcement is no accident. As life begins to return to normal in some locations, Microsoft is anticipating that many companies will adopt a flexible working model, with each week split between home and the office.
It seems like a fair bet, especially when Microsoft itself is embracing similar practices. In this hybrid scenario, shifting from a Windows desktop in the office to a personal laptop at come can feel jarring. The introduction of Windows 365 aims to smooth that transition.
Within the Windows 365 portal, you'll also get access to Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Excel. Microsoft Teams will be natively supported on most plans, as well as Adobe Reader, the Edge browser and Microsoft Defender antivirus software.
When will Windows 365 be available?Microsoft officially announced Windows 365 in a blog post on 14 July. The company has confirmed that it will become available to businesses on 2 August 2021.
How much will Windows 365 cost?Despite the service launching so soon, Microsoft is yet to officially reveal Windows 365 pricing. However, during a session at its Inspire partner conference, the company inadvertently revealed how much you'll have to pay for one of the 'Business' plans - US$31 per user, per month.
Via microsoft - pic.
