Microsoft Unveils Windows 365 Boot Update, Allowing Direct Cloud PC Access

Microsoft has just rolled out some game-changing updates to Windows 365 Boot, giving users the ability to boot directly into their Windows 365 Cloud PC instead of their physical device. This dedicated mode promises a bunch of perks, from beefed-up security features and better administrator control to a smoother experience for us, the workers.

 

 

This cool update is bundled into the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23601, specifically in the Dev Channel. The release for the general public is still hanging in the balance.

According to a chirpy Windows blog post announcing the update, here’s the lowdown: “You can now boot to your Windows 365 Cloud PC from your designated company-owned device. You will be able to seamlessly login to your Windows 365 Cloud PC from the Windows 11 login screen using password-less authentication methods like Windows Hello for Business.”

Microsoft spills the beans on an improved account-switching experience and throws in some extra personalization goodies like display pictures and remembering usernames.

They’ve also beefed up admin controls for the Windows 365 Boot shared mode, letting companies flaunt their branding from Intune.

But hey, it’s not just about the tech wizards; there’s good news for end-users too. They’ve jazzed up the way you can manage local device settings when you’re in Windows 365 boot, giving you more control over things like sound and display.

Microsoft’s been playing around with its Copilot generative AI feature. Now you can pop the Copilot window away from the dock, making it a standalone app that you can resize and overlay in front or behind other apps. Plus, they’re testing some gestures on touchscreens to summon Copilot instead of the notification center. It’s all in the experimental phase, and they’re itching to hear what users think before making these changes permanent for everyone.