Microsoft’s New Cloud PC Service Can Stream Windows to Macs and iPads

Microsoft announced Windows 365, a new cloud PC service that allows users to stream a Windows desktop through a web browser to any device, including Macs and iPads.

The service works the same as the company’s Xbox Cloud Gaming service: the Windows operating system is loaded on a remote computer in the cloud, and Microsoft streams the entire desktop PC experience to the computer’s device. ‘user. Microsoft calls it a “Hybrid Windows for a Hybrid World” where desktop and remote work interchange.

Windows 365 provides an instant start experience that allows users to stream all of their apps, tools, data, and custom settings from the cloud to any device, including your Mac, iPad, Linux, and Android device, ”explained Wangui, general manager of Microsoft 365. McKelvey. “The Windows experience is consistent, regardless of the device. You can pick up where you left off, because the state of your Cloud PC remains the same, even when you change devices. “

Users will be able to choose the configuration of the virtual PC, such as the amount of storage and working memory. According to Microsoft, a cloud PC can be configured with up to 512 GB and 16 GB of RAM.

There will be two editing options with multiple Cloud PC configurations depending on performance needs: Windows 365 Business and Windows 365 Enterprise. Information and files are encrypted and stored in the cloud, to avoid the security concerns of leaving sensitive data on local devices.

The service will be launched in early August and, at least initially, will be offered to business customers on the basis of a subscription per user per month. Microsoft hasn’t mentioned if a personal product is in the works, but the company has worked from a roadmap that should see all of its major services eventually move to a subscription model.

Assuming Microsoft has a consumer plan down the line, not only should Windows 365 deliver a full desktop experience on iPad, it may also appeal to Apple silicon Mac owners who can’t run Windows through Boot. Camp.