Microsoft has announced a new feature that will allow users to easily switch between Windows 11 and Windows 365, the cloud-based service that streams Windows desktops, apps, and settings to any device. The feature, called Windows 365 Switch, the tool is now available in public preview for Windows 11 Enterprise and Education editions. Windows 365 Switch enables users to sign in and connect to their Cloud PC using the Windows 11 Task view.
The feature will give users more flexibility and convenience to access their personalized Windows experience from any device, whether they are at home, in the office, or on the go. Users will be able to configure Windows 365 Switch through the Settings app in Windows 11. They will need to have a Windows 365 license and a Cloud PC provisioned for them by their organization. Once they enable Windows 365 Switch, they will see a new option on the Task view that lets them select their preferred Cloud PC. According to Microsoft, Windows 365 Switch will offer several benefits for users and organizations, such as:
- Faster and more secure access to their Cloud PC, without the need to launch a browser or a remote desktop client.
- Seamless integration with their local Windows 11 installation, with access to their files, settings, and apps across both environments.
- Reduced hardware requirements and maintenance costs for their local devices, as they can leverage the power and security of the cloud for their computing needs.
- Enhanced productivity and collaboration, as they can easily switch between their local and cloud environments depending on their tasks and preferences.
Making Windows 365 More flexible
Microsoft says that Windows 365 Switch will be compatible with most devices that can run Windows 11, including laptops, desktops, tablets, and even some smartphones. The feature will also support dual-boot scenarios, where users can have another operating system installed on their device alongside Windows 11.
During July 2021, Microsoft introduced Windows 365 Cloud PC, a virtual version of the OS available in the cloud. In August of the same year, Microsoft matured Cloud PC with the launch of Windows 365. Windows 365 brings the Windows platform to Microsoft cloud through Azure. The platform is a secure version of Windows that includes apps, settings, and data. It is available on corporate and personal devices.
