Microsoft Store update adds “immersive experience” to showcase apps and games

Microsoft Store update adds "immersive experience" to showcase apps and games

What you need to know

  • Windows Insiders can now test an updated version of the Microsoft Store.
  • The improved Microsoft Store experience places trailers for apps and games near the top of a listing.
  • You need to be on version 22409 or later of the Microsoft Store to see the new experience.
  • At the moment, the new experience is limited to Insiders, but it should ship to everyone in the near future.

As a long-time Windows user, I’ve seen the Microsoft Store evolve from a promising idea to a much-maligned platform over the years. But, like an old dog learning new tricks, it seems that Redmond is finally getting the hang of it! The latest update, with its immersive trailers and improved app selection, is a breath of fresh air for those of us who’ve stuck with the Store through thick and thin.


On Windows 11, the Microsoft Store is undergoing a facelift to offer an “immersive experience” at the top of app and game listings. This new design, which includes trailers or hero images for apps or games, is now accessible in both light and dark modes. At the moment, this enhanced experience is only available to Insiders, but Microsoft plans to make it available to all users shortly after version 22409 of the Microsoft Store. The updated Microsoft Store pages began distributing this week, although Microsoft has not yet specified when the improvements will be made accessible to non-Insiders.

Microsoft is rolling out a fresh element for product pages, enhancing them with an engaging introduction at the top. For apps and games that offer trailers, you’ll now be able to watch these while moving between different pages. If a product doesn’t have a trailer, visually appealing main images supplied by the developers will be used instead. Furthermore, you can control video autoplay in the Store settings, allowing you to turn it on or off as desired.

Fixing the Microsoft Store on Windows 11

Microsoft Store update adds "immersive experience" to showcase apps and games

For many years, the Microsoft Store has faced considerable criticism, much of which was deserved. Initially, it offered a limited range of apps, had inadequate support for developers, and failed to persuade users to consider it as their primary method for installing and updating applications.

The gaming experience through the Microsoft Store was even worse than the app experience at launch. Our Managing Editor Jez Corden said “the Windows 10 Store is an awful experience for core gamers, and it needs to change.” That was back in 2018 and during the days of Windows 10. Microsoft has made several improvements since then for both apps and games.

The Microsoft Store has significantly improved in speed and reliability compared to its earlier versions, offering a wider variety of applications and games. Unlike the initial phase when it primarily focused on third-party apps for various well-known services, today you can access official apps for popular software. Microsoft has streamlined the process of adding apps to the store and has been promoting the Microsoft Store aggressively over the years, which has proven successful.

Regrettably, it appears that numerous individuals overlook the Microsoft Store nowadays. The store initially gained a negative image, which many people have yet to give another chance. However, considering that Windows 11 is utilized by hundreds of millions worldwide, I’m confident that a considerable number will embrace and value the revamped Microsoft Store.

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2024-10-17 18:09