Plan for Change: Import custom images from Azure Compute Gallery for Windows 365

Windows 365 will support importing custom images from Azure Compute Gallery starting January 2026 in Public Preview, alongside existing managed images. Admins need the Compute Gallery Image Reader role and should update documentation to include both image import methods. Scope tag support will come at General Availability.

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.