Microsoft Is Shutting Down This Remote Desktop App In May: What You Need To Know
Microsoft is going to stop supporting the older version for Windows users because the new option is already available for them.
Microsoft has announced that the Remote Desktop program for Windows, available via the Microsoft Store, will be discontinued on May 27 this year. Users are advised to transition to the new Windows app to continue accessing services like Microsoft Dev Box, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows 365.
The Windows app brings several enhancements over Remote Desktop, including dynamic display resolution, multi-monitor support, and a unified interface for various Windows services. Additional benefits include a customizable home screen, seamless account switching, device redirection, and improved performance for Microsoft Teams.
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After the May 27 deadline, connections made through the Remote Desktop app to Microsoft Dev Box, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows 365 will be blocked. Additionally, Microsoft will cease support for the application for other users. Given this change, businesses and individuals relying on Remote Desktop must proactively transition to the Windows app to ensure uninterrupted access to these services.
“Starting May 27, 2025, the Remote Desktop app for Windows from the Microsoft Store will no longer be supported or available for download and installation," Hilary Braun of Microsoft posted on the company's Windows IT Pro blog. “Users must transition to Windows App to ensure continued access to Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop and Microsoft Dev Box," Braun further added.
New Windows App On The Way
The Windows App is available for download on the official Microsoft website or through the Microsoft Store. When Windows App does not yet offer Remote Desktop Services and Remote Desktop services are needed, Microsoft suggests using Remote Desktop Connection or RemoteApp and Desktop Connection as temporary fixes.
Because Microsoft is constantly trying to fill up feature gaps, users are also recommended to review the list of known issues and restrictions in the Windows App. There are also instructions on how to remove the Remote Desktop application.
It is recommended that IT administrators update internal documentation, notify end users, and ensure the Windows App is adopted smoothly to get their organisations ready for the shift. To prevent any delays to their remote working experience, Microsoft has urged all customers to take immediate action in its blog post as the deadline draws near.
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