One of the first changes you may notice after installing AutoCAD 2017 is the new Autodesk desktop app which is automatically displayed after the install is complete. A shortcut is added to the Window’s desktop and taskbar for easy access later.
Autodesk desktop app does not require you to sign in to Autodesk. However, it provides the most value when you are signed in. If you do not yet have an Autodesk account, you can create one.
The Autodesk desktop app is a companion application that delivers security patches and updates for all 2015, 2016, and 2017 versions of Microsoft Windows-based Autodesk products.
In the left panel you’ll an icon for each of the products you have installed as well as an Updates icon. Pass the cursor over the item to display the full name, or simply expand the panel.
Selecting the Updates icon displays available updates for any of those installed products.
You can select any of the product icons to display content relevant to that particular product including available updates and learning content.
The Autodesk desktop app is subscription aware, and delivers subscription-only updates and learning content for the products under subscription.
When a new hot fix, service pack or security patch becomes available, the Autodesk desktop app displays a notification on the system tray providing easy access to the update and relevant details including available learning content specific to that update.
Watch Video below for more information.
Video - AutoCAD 2017 Autodesk Desktop App