VM Horizon Client

VM Horizon Client for Mac is a remote access application built to connect you to entitled virtual desktops and published applications from a Horizon environment, bringing centralized workspaces to a local macOS device.

It is best suited for organizations that deliver managed desktops or apps and for Mac users who need a consistent way to reach those resources from different locations and devices.

What the Mac client does well

A standout strength is how clearly the client centers on day-to-day access. You can connect to your brokers and see your available desktops and applications together in a single view. The redesigned experience also emphasizes a cleaner layout that stays consistent across platforms, which can make it easier for IT teams to support and for end users to recognize where common settings live.

Navigation that scales beyond a short list

When you have more than a handful of resources, organization matters. VM Horizon Client supports grouping desktops and apps into folders and subfolders, marking favorites, and applying color labels. Those options help keep frequently used items close at hand without turning the main view into a long, flat list.

In-session controls that stay close by

Once you are connected, the client provides a movable toolbar designed for quick access to common actions. That includes controls for USB device connections, settings, and session actions such as disconnect and log off. The ability to move, pin, or unpin the toolbar keeps these controls available without forcing a fixed layout.

VDI features and protocol direction

The client continues to support core capabilities such as Horizon Blast, multi-monitor support, USB redirection, and expected security features. At the same time, the platform direction is clear: PCoIP is being phased out from Horizon Client and Horizon Agent, with Blast positioned as the preferred protocol going forward. For environments still standardized on PCoIP, this is a practical planning consideration rather than a small footnote.

Mac-friendly builds and security posture

On modern Macs, VM Horizon Client is offered as a Universal macOS binary that can run natively on both Apple silicon and Intel-based systems, avoiding reliance on Rosetta. Native Apple silicon support also extends to key Horizon features, including Microsoft Teams optimization and VMware Blast Codec. For organizations with compliance-driven requirements, the macOS client also supports use of FIPS compliant ciphers.