Table of Contents
Summary
- Windows 365 will support importing custom images directly from an Azure Compute Gallery alongside managed images.
- Administrators will need the Compute Gallery Image Reader role in Azure to utilize this new feature.
- There is no impact on end users or existing Cloud PCs, and both import methods will remain operational.
- Update internal documentation to include both managed images and Azure Compute Gallery options in operational runbooks.
- Scope tag support for Azure Compute Gallery images will be included when the feature reaches General Availability.
Admin Impact: Medium
User Impact: Low
Release Start: 01 Jan 2026
Release End: 01 Jan 2026
Services: Windows 365
Category: Stay informed
Tags: User Adoption, Admin Action
History
1/16/2026 Item Added to Message Center
Microsoft Message
Summary
Windows 365 is adding support for importing custom images directly from an Azure Compute Gallery (ACG). This new method is available alongside the existing managed image workflow and enables organizations to use additional image types, such as those configured with Trusted Launch, that are not supported through managed images today.
How this will affect your organization
Beginning January 2026, during Public Preview, administrators will see a new option to select an Azure Compute Gallery as the source for a custom image. There is no change for end users, and existing Cloud PCs are not affected. Both image import methods will continue to function in parallel; the managed image method remains fully supported.
When this feature reaches General Availability, scope tag support for Azure Compute Gallery–based images will be included.
What you need to do to prepare
Review admin permissions: To import images from an Azure Compute Gallery, admins must have the Compute Gallery Image Reader role in Azure.
Update internal documentation: Incorporate both image upload options—managed images (GA) and Azure Compute Gallery (Public Preview → GA)—into your operational runbooks.