Cloud-based PC solutions could be considered excess, as Microsoft introduces Windows 365, a service for streaming individual applications.
In a move to broaden its reach, Omnissa has unveiled a new version of its App Volumes Manager, which is now compatible with physical servers and personal computers. This expansion marks a significant step for the company, as it aims to run on Platform9's cut of OpenStack, and support for Hyper-V and OpenShift is on the horizon.
The cost-effectiveness of desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) is a growing trend, with DaaS now often proving to be cheaper to run than laptops, even after accounting for thin client costs. Omnissa's products will now work on Nutanix's AHV hypervisor and hyperconverged stack, moving away from the exclusive use of VMware's vSphere and Cloud Foundation.
Meanwhile, Microsoft has made a bold move by discontinuing classic Azure DaaS, stating that it wasn't a true Azure service. AWS, on the other hand, is targeting desktop virtualization rigs with its cloudy DaaS offerings. The tech giant has announced two new instance types, M4 and M4 Pro Mac, which run on Mac Minis. The M4 instance boasts a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, and a 16-core neural engine, while the M4 Pro Mac offers 14 cores CPU, a 20-core GPU, 48GB unified memory, and a 16-core neural engine.
These instances are currently only available in AWS's US East (N. Virginia) and US West (Oregon) regions. AWS has also announced the public preview of "Windows 365 Cloud Apps," a service that allows users of Frontline Cloud PCs to boot straight into an app instead of the Windows desktop. Microsoft is aiming to open the service to more apps as organizations embrace Windows 365 Cloud Apps.
Citrix has made strides in remote Mac support, although some customers have expressed dissatisfaction. Microsoft, however, is focusing on simplifying app delivery with Windows 365 Cloud Apps, making it easier for IT admins to deploy custom line-of-business apps at scale.
Omnissa is also making its mark in the security sector with the launch of "Workspace ONE Vulnerability Defense," a product that scans endpoints for security problems and informs admins which machines need attention. This AI-driven automated security solution is aimed at enterprises and IT teams managing digital workspaces that require proactive vulnerability assessment and remediation at scale.
In a further effort to secure endpoint fleets, Omnissa is applying agentic AI to the challenge, with a forthcoming tool in the pipeline. The service delivers only essential applications like Outlook or Word without loading a full desktop, offering a lean, efficient solution for users.
These developments signal a shift in the desktop virtualization landscape, with companies like Omnissa, AWS, Microsoft, and Citrix leading the charge. As the market evolves, we can expect to see more innovations that make DaaS more accessible, secure, and efficient for businesses and individuals alike.
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