Cloud PC is Microsoft's service that allows users to access a Windows desktop experience from any device with an internet connection. It connects the user to a virtual machine hosted in the cloud and streams its desktop and apps to the local device. A new research reveals that Cloud PC adds support for third-party providers, that makes it not limited to Microsoft 365.
It works similarly to Xbox Cloud Gaming service. Businesses can use this service to create Cloud PCs running Windows 10 or 11, allowing users to stream the OS to any device. Users can install any applications and features on this Cloud PC and access them from anywhere with an internet connection.
Microsoft is working to enhance the user experience by integrating the Cloud PC feature seamlessly with the host OS. If a user's device is running Windows 11, they can easily switch to the Cloud PC instance, just like switching to a virtual desktop.
Also, the company adds support for third-party providers. So, with such a provider installed, the user will be able to access a virtual machine running elsewhere outside of Microsoft's own cloud infrastructure. As discovered by well-known Windows enthusiast @thebookisclosed, it currently has the following UI.
This feature is hidden, and is a work in progress. Interested users can try to enable it with help of ViVeTool, as suggested by @PhantomOfEarth. However, in addition to IDs, you must have a Cloud PC provider installed and a remote system registered & bound to it. Without these, the Settings page and the virtual desktop switcher parts will remain hidden. It can be quite a challenge.
Support us
Winaero greatly relies on your support. You can help the site keep bringing you interesting and useful content and software by using these options: