Citrix - 1.1.2 Introduction

This lesson continues the tour of XenDesktop 7.6 features with a focus on graphics, peripherals and remote experience. Drag-and-drop operations now benefit from lossless graphics thanks to the new H.264 codec, both for hosted applications and for server-based desktops. Remote access from a 7.6 desktop also supports USB peripherals with automatic device redirection, mapping for storage devices, and acceleration for webcams, microphones and headsets when audio and video are used in real time.

A new virtual loopback service lets locally installed apps and published apps communicate transparently — useful when a published application is launched from a locally installed shortcut and needs to interact with the local environment. The Citrix Mobile SDK gives enterprise developers a toolkit to mobilise existing line-of-business Windows applications or to build new mobile-friendly apps that can be delivered to any mobile device through the Citrix Receiver.

Real-time and HTML5

  • The HDX RealTime Optimization Pack supports Microsoft Lync 2013 for voice and video collaboration without compromise.
  • Originally launched on Chrome OS, the Citrix Receiver progressively pivoted to an improved HTML5 client.
  • The new HTML5 Receiver adds richer monitoring, direct SSL connections and deeper integration with the host operating system.
  • Features such as USB redirection, clipboard support, bi-directional audio and video make Chrome OS a viable enterprise option.

We have only covered some of the headline features of XenDesktop 7.6: many smaller improvements to existing functions remain to be explored in upcoming sessions. The platform brings consistent enhancements over previous versions and we will keep digging through them. See you next time for more of the XenDesktop 7.6 deep dive.

Summary

This introductory lesson covers Citrix 7.6 platform capabilities, including support for drag-and-drop operations, lossless graphics rendering, USB device mapping with automatic driver support, and multimedia device support (webcam, microphone, headset via virtual channels). The lesson explores the Citrix Mobile SDK for enterprise application development across multiple platforms, discusses the evolution from early Receiver clients to modern HTML5 and Chromebook support, and highlights version 7.6's improvements including SSL connection support and Chrome OS compatibility.

Key points

  • Citrix 7.6 supports advanced drag-and-drop and lossless graphics with optimized codec support for all deployment scenarios
  • USB device mapping and virtual channel support enable webcam, microphone, headset, and loopback devices for rich remote desktop experiences
  • Citrix Mobile SDK provides enterprise developers with tools to mobilize existing Windows/LOB applications or create new mobile-friendly apps deployable across any device
  • Citrix Receiver evolved through multiple generations (browser, Chromebook, HTML5) with improved features, SSL direct connection, and native OS functionality access
  • Version 7.6 introduces significant improvements including enhanced monitoring, multi-device support, and Chrome OS as a viable enterprise platform option
  • The platform offers numerous additional features and granular improvements within existing functionality layers beyond core capabilities

FAQ

What devices and peripherals can Citrix 7.6 support remotely?

Citrix 7.6 supports USB devices with automatic driver mapping, webcams, microphones, headsets, and loopback virtual devices. It enables local device communication and application integration through virtual channels for rich multimedia experiences.

How does the Citrix Mobile SDK help enterprises?

The Citrix Mobile SDK provides enterprise developers a comprehensive toolkit to mobilize existing Windows business applications or develop new user-friendly mobile applications that can be delivered to any mobile device.

What platforms does the modern Citrix Receiver support?

Modern Citrix Receiver supports Windows, Chromebook, HTML5 browsers, and Chrome OS. It offers optimized support for multiple device types with features including direct SSL connection and access to native operating system functionality like USB redirection, clipboard, and bidirectional audio-video streaming.