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Microsoft's New Cloud PC Designed for Windows 365 Now Available
Microsoft on Wednesday announced Windows 365 Link -- the first cloud PC device from the company -- is now generally available.
Windows 365 Link, unveiled at Microsoft Ignite 2024, is a purpose-built cloud PC device that securely connects to Windows 365 within seconds. Designed for rapid setup and simplified management via Microsoft Intune, the device caters to desk-based and frontline workers in shared environments. It allows users to sign in quickly and work securely, leaving no local data behind when they log out.
"In today’s dynamic work environment, businesses need robust solutions that support resilience and maximize return on investment (ROI)," said Microsoft's Stefan Kinnestrand in a blog post announcing the general availability. "As organizations modernize their IT environments, they increasingly turn to cloud solutions like Windows 365 to enhance security and productivity, streamline IT management and ensure seamless connectivity."
The 14-ounce device requires no local storage, apps or administrative access, and comes with built-in security features such as Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, BitLocker encryption and strict application controls. With support for media redirection and a streamlined setup, Windows 365 Link is designed to deliver a cloud-based desktop experience in an enterprise-ready form factor.
Pricing for Windows 365 Link starts at $349.99 in the U.S., with availability through Microsoft resellers in Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Along with the announced availability of the device, Microsoft also unveiled a handful of new features for Windows 365 that are now generally available. They include:
- Windows 365 Disaster Recovery Plus: Offers enhanced regional failover with improved recovery objectives -- RPO of 60 minutes and RTO of 30 minutes.
- Windows 365 migration API: Enables easier transition of virtual machines into cloud PCs.
- Windows App for Android: Extends access to Windows virtualization solutions across Android devices, joining Windows, macOS, iOS and the Web. The app now supports passkeys, Chrome OS, and will soon offer Teams optimization on iOS and Android.
- Zebra device compatibility: Enables full Windows desktop access from Zebra mobile hardware, enhancing mobility for enterprise users.
- MAM support in Windows App and Edge for Business: Provides policy-based data protection for bring-your-own-device environments without requiring full device management.
- Hotpatch updates for Windows endpoints: Now generally available, hotpatches deliver security updates without requiring device reboots.
Microsoft said it will continue to evolve Windows 365 to meet the needs of a hybrid and cloud-first workforce, and these latest updates underscore the company’s commitment to delivering secure, flexible and cost-effective solutions across platforms.