How to Run Desktop (Win32) apps in Windows Mixed Reality in Windows 10


Mixed reality blends real-world and virtual content into hybrid environments where physical and digital objects coexist and interact.

By default, you can already open your Microsoft Store apps in Windows Mixed Reality.

Starting with Windows 10 build 18329, Microsoft has added the ability to launch Desktop (Win32) applications (such as Spotify, Pant.NET, and Visual Studio Code) in Windows Mixed Reality.

Please keep in mind this is feature is still in development and Microsoft is actively working on addressing bugs. You may find ways to “break” the feature, and when you do, please file a feedback via Feedback Hub.

This tutorial will show you how to open and run desktop (Win32) apps in Windows Mixed Reality in Windows 10.



Here's How:

1. While using the Mixed Reality Portal app for mixed reality, press the Windows button on your motion controller to open the Pins Panel. (see screenshot below)

2. Select All apps to the right of the Pins Panel. (see screenshot below)

3. Select Page down to the right of the Pins Panel until you see the Classic Apps (Beta) folder, and select Classic Apps (Beta) to open it. (see screenshots below)

4. You will now be able to Page down and Page up to select to run any desktop (Win32) app in the Pins Panel. (see screenshots below)

That's it,
Shawn