Quick Assist is being replaced with a Microsoft Store version (requiring local admin permissions to install)

[anyweb]

If you (like me) have used Quick Assist in the past you might be disappointed to know that the built in Windows 10/11 app is going to be killed off in the coming days and replaced with Quick Assist from the Microsoft Store.

 

If you start the Quick Assist app today you'll see something like this (taken from my Windows 11 computer).

the text below is taken from the official announcement.

 

Quote

 

Remote assistance with Quick Assist

Quick Assist is an app in Windows 10 and Windows 11 that enables you to receive or provide assistance with your PC over a remote connection. The current built-in Quick Assist app is reaching end of service. 

To keep your remote assistance sessions secure, you will need to download the new Quick Assist from the Microsoft Store.

 

 

Why is this a big deal ?

Well for a couple of reasons namely...

• If you were supporting users in Windows Autopilot using CTRL+Windows key + Q, then that built in ability will be gone.
• If your users are Standard Users (and they should be) then they won't be able to install the app from the Store as it requires local admin permissions. Below screenshot is from a Windows 10 vm running as a standard user.

• If the computer you are supporting has Store app issues (and that's a common problem, for example store apps not working after a Cumulative update was installed and waiting on a reboot).
• The new app uses characters as well as numbers, and that might confuse some people

 

Ironically, the new Store apps provided instructions say nothing about the fact that the user has to download the Store app to get support.

 

Quote

 

Give the security code to the person you’re helping and tell them to follow these steps:

1.

Open the Start menu go to Windows Accessories -> Quick Assist or type Quick Assist in the search bar and select the Quick Assist app to launch it.

2.

Accept the privacy policy, if prompted.

3.

Enter the code provided in Code from assistant and click Share screen.

4.

Verify that the person trying to help you is who you expected and accept the request.

Wait for your devices to connect.

 

 

Some think this is a good thing as it means only admins can install the remote assistance app, but I think it'll just push people towards alternatives

What are your thoughts on this ?