Microsoft has officially launched Windows 365 Link, its first purpose-built Cloud PC device, alongside new innovations for its Windows 365 service. The announcement marks a significant step in Microsoft's efforts to enhance productivity and streamline IT management for organizations adapting to modern work environments.
Windows 365 Link, which was previously available in preview, is now generally available for purchase. This dedicated hardware connects securely to Windows 365 Cloud PCs in seconds, requiring minimal configuration and setup time.
According to Microsoft, the device can be particularly valuable for desk-based or frontline workers in shared workspaces, allowing them to efficiently access their Cloud PCs while ensuring no data remains on the local device after signing out.
Roman Kleyn, Head of Workplace Design at Krones, endorsed the solution:
"We needed a purpose-built device on the shop floor that could fit our new, collaborative approach. Windows 365 Link devices were exactly the solution we envisioned to enable our workers to access their assets in the cloud."
The device is priced at USD349.99 in the United States, with equivalent pricing in other regions including Australia (AUD639), Canada (CAD519.99), Germany (EUR419), Japan (JPY56,800), New Zealand (NZD739), and the United Kingdom (GBP349).
Alongside the hardware launch, Microsoft has introduced Windows 365 Frontline's new shared mode, designed to expand Cloud PC access to more users. This model allows one Windows 365 Frontline license to provide access to one shared Cloud PC, which can be used by multiple employees – though only one at a time.
The shared mode is particularly suitable for retail staff, manufacturing workers, contractors, and training environments where users need occasional access to applications or data. When a user completes their session and signs out, their profile is automatically deleted, making the Cloud PC available for the next user while maintaining security and privacy.
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Microsoft has introduced the Autopilot Device Preparation feature (currently in public preview) to help IT administrators manage these shared resources effectively. This tool allows admins to define and install essential Microsoft Intune applications and scripts during provisioning, streamlining operational processes for shared Cloud PCs.
Microsoft has also enhanced its disaster recovery capabilities with Windows 365 Disaster Recovery Plus, which is now generally available. This service replicates Cloud PC disk snapshots to an alternate region, offering recovery point objectives within 60 minutes and recovery time objectives within 30 minutes.
Further expanding access across platforms, the Windows App for Android is now generally available, making Windows virtualization solutions accessible across all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and the web. Microsoft reports the app has reached over 425 million usage hours across all platforms.
Microsoft also highlighted findings from a Forrester Consulting study projecting substantial ROI ranging from 94% to 217% for organizations adopting Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop, with projected productivity gains and cost savings in PC lifecycle management and IT infrastructure.
These innovations reflect Microsoft's commitment to providing secure and flexible computing solutions for organizations transitioning to cloud-based work environments, particularly for frontline and shared workspace scenarios.