Microsoft has announced Windows 365, a new cloud-based service that allows Mac and iPad users to stream their Windows desktops via a web browser. This is a perfect option, especially if you don't mind using macOS.

The new service was announced on the official blog earlier this week and works much like Microsoft's Xbox Cloud Gaming service. Essentially, the Windows experience is streamed to the user's device, even if that device does not technically support the operating system.

In its announcement, Microsoft emphasizes that this service is very useful for users who work remotely. Perhaps they only have a MacBook Pro at home, but need access to a work PC running Windows; Windows 365 makes that possible.

Also, Mac and iPad users should be able to run programs and apps that do not support macOS. It would also be very useful for owners of Chromebooks running the more limited ChromeOS. some well-known programs, including Photoshop, cannot run on certain Chromebooks. windows 365 would be an ideal workaround.

Users will also be able to choose the configuration of their streamed virtual PC. According to Microsoft, Windows 365 will be able to stream PCs with up to 512GB of memory and 16GB of RAM.

Security is of course a concern, and storing sensitive business data on personal devices is generally a major taboo. To remedy this potential problem, Microsoft encrypts all information in the cloud to avoid potential security breaches.

The service will launch in August and will be available in two different editions: Windows 365 Business and Windows 365 Enterprise. This blog does not mention that Windows 365 will be available to individuals, but assuming a smooth rollout to the enterprise, it would make logical sense for Microsoft to grant access to individuals.

Microsoft has been fairly tight-lipped about pricing, but yesterday the software giant may have inadvertently revealed the price of Window 365; The Verge reports that Microsoft revealed at an Inspire session that that companies will be charged a monthly access fee of $31 per user. For this subscription fee, users get two CPUs, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. This configuration is part of the Windows 365 Business package, which is designed for companies with fewer than 300 employees. It has been confirmed by a Microsoft spokesperson that both the less expensive and more expensive packages will be available at launch.

Windows 365 will be compatible with Windows 10 from launch, and Windows 11 support will be provided when the refreshed OS is fully released later this year. Currently, Windows 11 is available in the form of an Insider Preview build, which has already caused a backlash.