In this article you’ll learn about the latest updates for the Remote Desktop client for Windows. To learn more about using the Remote Desktop client for Windows with Azure Virtual Desktop, see Connect to Azure Virtual Desktop with the Remote Desktop client for Windows and Use features of the Remote Desktop client for Windows when connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop.
The Remote Desktop client for Windows has seen several updates in 2024 aimed at enhancing user experience and functionality. One of the key improvements is the introduction of better client logging, diagnostics, and error classification, which aids administrators in troubleshooting connection and feed issues more effectively. This update also includes a fix for a bug that caused the RemoteApp window to appear stretched, ensuring a more seamless visual experience for users. Additionally, the client now ensures that screen readers announce whether a workspace can be found when users enter text into the email or URL field to search for a workspace while subscribing to a feed. This enhancement significantly improves accessibility for users relying on assistive technologies.
Moreover, the client has addressed several bugs that previously affected user experience. For instance, an issue that caused the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) prompt to appear twice when users attempted to connect to a resource has been resolved. Another fix addressed a problem where an extra string appeared next to a user’s tenant URL. These updates are part of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to refining the Remote Desktop client, ensuring it remains a robust and reliable tool for remote connectivity. The updates also include improvements to the Teams integration within Azure Virtual Desktop, enhancing multimedia redirection and video playback capabilities.
There are three versions of the Remote Desktop client for Windows, which are all supported for connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop:
- Standalone download as an MSI installer. This is the most common version of the Remote Desktop client for Windows.
- Azure Virtual Desktop app from the Microsoft Store. This is a preview version of the Remote Desktop client for Windows.
- Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store. This version is no longer being developed.
The latest updates to the Remote Desktop client for Windows in 2024 include several enhancements aimed at improving user experience and functionality:
- User Experience Improvements: The client has undergone UX enhancements to make navigation and usability more intuitive 1.
- New Features:
- Microsoft Entra ID Dashboard: This addition helps in managing user and group access more efficiently.
- LAPS Credential Entry: This feature enhances security by managing local admin passwords.
- Enhanced Auto-Type Actions: New auto-type actions allow for streamlined input of usernames, domains, passwords, and OTPs into applications that do not support autofill.
- Performance Enhancements: The client now supports better performance on high-DPI devices, ensuring native resolution display.
- Security and Bug Fixes: Regular updates include security patches and bug fixes to enhance stability and security.
These updates are part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve Remote Desktop services for both individual and enterprise users.
Updates for version 1.2.5699 (Insider)
Date published: August 27, 2024
Download: Windows 64-bit, Windows 32-bit, Windows ARM64
- Made an improvement where new session windows will not become the focused windows.
- Fixed a bug to ensure that the screen mode id setting in the RDP file is honored.
- Fixed an issue where Teams rendered into the wrong window when multiple Remote Desktop session windows were open.
Updates for version 1.2.5620
Date published: August 13, 2024
Download: Windows 64-bit, Windows 32-bit, Windows ARM64
- Fixed an issue for CVE-2024-38131.
