Microsoft reveals cloud-based managed desktop service for business clients

The Register dedicated an article to Microsoft Managed Desktop (MMD) service a new cloud-based subscription model that lets the software giant scan and monitor enrolled devices, and push out security updates, OS updates, and software updates as necessary. Microsoft says the service uses telemetry data and machine learning to keep everything in optimal condition.

Basically, if you're an overworked sysadmin – or you don't want an army of IT admins – you can sign up your workforce to use MMD-controlled, cloud-connected machines, and let Microsoft handle the updates, patches, security, and configuration changes. Meanwhile, you define how you want your applications automatically provisioned, and how you want to secure your users' computers, and it's all automagically executed across your fleet from Microsoft's centralized cloud.

A worker could, say, open up a new laptop delivered to their desk, and add it to your MMD plan, and get all the apps and configuration settings and updates they need, automatically, once the device is accepted and user verified.