1. Microsoft has launched a new Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution for Teams, enhancing user experience on Azure Virtual Desktops and Windows 365. This upgrade features a decoupled media engine, enabling faster updates and improved performance without extensive infrastructure changes. IT admins can benefit from streamlined installation and auto-updating capabilities.2.
Microsoft Unveils New VDI Solution for Teams
Microsoft has officially launched a new Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution for Teams, specifically designed for Azure Virtual Desktops (AVD) and Windows 365 environments. This innovative architecture aims to enhance user experience by aligning physical and virtual desktop interactions more closely.
What’s New?
The standout feature of this release is the introduction of a new media engine, known as “SlimCore.” This engine is the same one utilized by the native Windows app for Teams. By decoupling it from the Remote Desktop client, Microsoft can roll out features more rapidly without necessitating VDI infrastructure upgrades.
“This new architecture brings the Teams’ user experience to a closer alignment between physical and virtual desktops,” said Microsoft representatives.
Major Updates
To leverage the new VDI solution, users must ensure they have the latest version of Teams (24193.1904.3031.6050 or higher) and an updated Remote Desktop client. The installation of a small plugin, approximately 230 KB in size, is also required. This plugin is responsible for managing the virtual channel and downloading the SlimCore media engine.
Importantly, deploying the WebRTC-based optimization is not a prerequisite for the SlimCore optimization. This means organizations can directly implement the new features without additional setup complexities.
Key Benefits of SlimCore Optimization
- Enhanced performance with lower resource consumption on endpoints.
- Faster call setup times and higher resolutions.
- New codecs and features introduced regularly.
- Auto-updates that eliminate the need for manual intervention.
“More features, performance improvements, and streamlined support for any Teams issue are just a few benefits of the new optimization,” noted Microsoft.
What’s Important to Know
Admin rights are not necessary for the plugin installation, simplifying deployment. The plugin is bundled with the Remote Desktop client, allowing for flexible installation options. Additionally, it can maintain up to twelve versions of SlimCore, ensuring compatibility across various VDI environments.
Microsoft aims to keep the plugin lightweight, with a size of around 230 KB, compared to the previous WebRTC plugin, which was significantly larger. This change reflects a commitment to efficiency and user experience.
In summary, Microsoft’s new VDI solution for Teams is a game-changer for organizations using AVD and Windows 365. With its focus on performance and seamless updates, it promises to enhance collaboration in virtual environments.
From the Microsoft Teams Blog
Windows Server Devices Now Recognized as a New OS in Intune Microsoft has announced that Windows Server devices are Read more
Microsoft Power Platform is leading the way in AI-generated low-code app development. With the help of AI, users can quickly Read more
Microsoft Intune is an enterprise mobility management platform that helps organizations manage mobile devices, applications, and data. The October edition Read more
Microsoft Intune has released its November edition, featuring new updates to help IT admins better manage their organization’s mobile devices. Read more
