It's great to see you're diving into research about transitioning to QuickBooks Online (QBO), Btks. I understand the mixed information about the QuickBooks Online Desktop App can be confusing, so let me help clarify things for you.
Please know that the QBO desktop app incorporates familiar features and workflows from QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT), including switching between multiple companies and split-screen features, and a navigation map, which resembles QBDT's homepage. However, keep in mind that there are differences between the two since they are distinct products, but these features are designed to ease the learning process. See this QuickBooks reference for more information: Download and use the QuickBooks Online desktop app.
Now, regarding the conflicting information about its availability: Some articles refer to it as the QBO Advanced Desktop App because it was only previously available for QBO Advanced users. The good news is that this app is now free for all QBO users, no matter which plan they're on (Simple Start, Essentials, Plus, or Advanced). You don’t need to have the Advanced subscription to access it.
As for your last question, many users do find that the QBO Desktop App facilitates the shift from QuickBooks Desktop to QBO because it offers a more familiar interface. However, it’s important to remember that QBO functions differently from QuickBooks Desktop, so while the app mimics a desktop environment, you’ll still want to get accustomed to QBO’s workflows and cloud-based features.
To help in your consideration of switching from QBDT to QBO, here are a couple of articles to help:
If you have any other QuickBooks questions or concerns, please feel free to ask!
