Microsoft is giving Cloud PC a dedicated Windows mode
Microsoft has unveiled major updates to Windows 365 Boot that will allow users to boot directly into their Windows 365 Cloud PC instead of their physical device.
This new special mode will bring a number of benefits, including improved security features and administrative control, as well as a simpler process for employees.
The update comes as part of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23601 in the Dev Channel, and general availability has not been confirmed as of yet.
Windows 11 gets better Cloud PC integration
A windows blog post The update announcement reads: “You can now boot to your Windows 365 Cloud PC from your designated company-owned device. You can seamlessly log into your Windows 365 Cloud PC from the Windows 11 login screen using passwordless authentication methods such as Windows Hello for Business.”
Microsoft says the update brings a better experience when switching accounts and some further personalization, including display images and username remembering.
The company also added new administrative features for shared Windows 365 Boot Mode, which allows companies to display their branding from Intune.
For the end user, improvements have also been made to the way local device settings can be managed during Windows 365 startup, for adjusting things like sound and display.
Among other minor Windows 365 Boot changes and UI tweaks, Microsoft has also experimented with the Copilot generative AI feature in the operating system.
Users now have the option to move the Copilot window away from the dock and display it as a standalone app that can be resized and placed in front of or behind others. Microsoft is also replacing the swipe gesture on touchscreens to bring up Copilot instead of the Notification Center. The company says it's just “trying out” these changes and would like to gather feedback before rolling them out more permanently to all users.
A full list of all changes implemented in Preview Build 23601 can be seen on the website blog page.