Microsoft stops supporting Windows Remote Desktop app, moves to new Windows app

Microsoft has made an important announcement for customers using the Remote Desktop for Windows app from the Microsoft Store. On May 27, 2025, this app will be officially discontinued and removed from the Microsoft Store.

All users are currently recommended to migrate from the Remote Desktop app to the Windows App if they want to continue using Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. After May 27, 2025, access to these features will be discontinued, forcing users to make the transition.

Microsoft says there are many benefits to using the Windows App over the old Remote Desktop app, including:

• Unified access to multiple Windows services, including Cloud PC and virtual desktops, from a simple, optimized interface.
• Custom home screen, multi-monitor support and dynamic display resolution.
• Enhanced remote work experience with features like device redirection, Microsoft Teams optimization, and easy account switching.

Of course, the Remote Desktop app isn’t just for accessing Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. As the name suggests, it’s also a tool that lets you connect to remote computers. If you use the program primarily for this purpose, Microsoft recommends switching to the Remote Desktop Connection built into Windows. Those who don’t know how to use RDC can refer to Microsoft’s official guide .

Microsoft also reminds users that Windows Apps have their own limitations and a list of known bugs across all supported platforms, such as not being able to be used in some environments that require proxy authentication. You can find the full list here .

The transition from Microsoft's Remote Desktop app began a few months ago when the company announced a similar change on macOS. It will be interesting to see how Windows users react to the change.