Windows App to replace Remote Desktop app for Windows-is this impact on RDS and AVD

Hello Microsoft Team,

I’ve read your blog post:
Windows App to replace Remote Desktop app for Windows

We manage two different environments across two tenants, and I’d appreciate clarification on whether any changes are needed from our side due to the shift to the new Windows App.

🔹 Old Tenant Setup:

• We use classic Remote Desktop Services (RDS).
• Users connect via .rdp icons/files, which we send to them directly.
• These are launched using the built-in Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe) client.

🔹 New Tenant Setup (AVD):

• We use Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) with host pools and session hosts.
• Users were guided to install the “Windows App” to access published RemoteApps.
• We recently checked, and users indeed see and use the new Windows App (blue icon, modern UI).

My Questions:

1. For the old tenant RDS users using .rdp files via mstsc.exe, will they be impacted by this Windows App transition? Or is mstsc.exe still fully supported with no required changes?
2. For the AVD users who are now using the new Windows App, is there anything else we need to prepare for — such as future breaking changes, feature shifts, or migration recommendations?
3. How can we clearly differentiate between the old Remote Desktop app and the new Windows App for other users who may be confused while installing it from the Microsoft Store?
4. Do you recommend all future RemoteApp access (RDS or AVD) shift to the new Windows App, even if we’re still using .rdp file-based RDS setups?

We want to make sure our users have a stable experience and that we’re aligned with Microsoft’s long-term direction.

Thanks in advance for your guidance!

Regards,

Ganesh Rao