Over time, the Microsoft app store has undergone several transformations, initially debuting alongside Windows 8 in 2012 as the “Windows Store.” Initially conceived as a platform for modern apps, it failed to reach its potential. Through updates, enhancements, and loosening restrictions during the development of Windows 10, it eventually evolved into the “Microsoft Store” we recognize today.
It wasn’t until the release of Windows 11 in 2021 that the Microsoft Store truly shone. Previously, I seldom used the Microsoft Store due to its unattractive design, sluggish performance, and lack of necessary apps. However, nowadays, the Microsoft Store has undergone a remarkable transformation, boasting an aesthetically pleasing interface, smooth operation, and a comprehensive catalog of apps that cater to all my Windows needs.
Over the past few years, Microsoft has significantly revamped the Microsoft Store, turning it into a valuable app marketplace for Windows users. One major shift Microsoft introduced was welcoming legacy and full-fledged desktop applications without requiring developers to alter their code to meet the store’s standards.
As an analyst, I’d rephrase it like this: I experienced a significant shift in the second change – developers now have the freedom to deploy their applications on their own servers, yet these apps remain visible on the Microsoft Store. This empowers developers to distribute their apps and updates using their familiar systems, eliminating the need for Microsoft’s hosting fees or dependence on their servers for app distribution. Essentially, the Microsoft Store functions as a search engine, listing the app but directly sourcing the data from the developer’s server.
As a dedicated Windows user, I’m thrilled about the recent expansion of the Microsoft Store. Now, it houses an unprecedented number of apps, including all my daily essentials. The convenience lies in the one-click downloads, simplifying the process and making setting up a new Windows PC a breeze.
Not only is the Microsoft Store efficient at downloading fresh applications, but it also manages app updates effectively. This means maintaining my Windows PC up-to-date is hassle-free. By simply clicking the “check for updates” button in the Microsoft Store, all apps on my computer will automatically receive any available updates if necessary.
The Microsoft Store will also provide a distinct section for app updates of applications not on its server, allowing you to manually initiate the latest update download. This feature ensures uninterrupted workflow as it prevents the Microsoft Store from disturbing you while you have those specific apps running, a thoughtful consideration.
The back-end of the Microsoft Store has seen enhancements from Microsoft, leading to fewer instances of app updates or downloads failing mysteriously as was common before. In rare cases when an issue does arise, the Microsoft Store now provides a useful error code, explaining why the update failed and offering guidance on how to resolve it, which is quite beneficial.
The user interface of the Microsoft Store today deserves recognition. It has significantly improved since its Windows 10 days when it was a sluggish and unattractive web app that offered an unpleasant user experience due to its poor responsiveness. Today’s Microsoft Store represents a complete overhaul, with a fresh design built on native Windows UI frameworks, ensuring a smooth, intuitive, and engaging user experience.
The entire application is interactive, offering options like hovering over listings for additional details and a swift installation button. The main page is adaptive as well, displaying apps it predicts you might find interesting to download, based on your previous app downloads. I’ve found this particularly useful in discovering new applications that I didn’t realize I needed. In fact, I would go so far as to say that it’s the most impressive pre-installed application in Windows 11.
The ultimate one stop shop for all your apps
After more than a decade, the Microsoft Store has evolved into a valuable software marketplace for Windows users, making it easier for them to find necessary applications within the system. This development undoubtedly benefits everyone as most users can now satisfy their application needs through the Microsoft Store. The only exception I can think of is Google Chrome, but at this point, that’s more on Google than Microsoft, considering they haven’t made it available in the store yet.
A variety of well-known web browsers, including Opera and Firefox, can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. Additionally, applications such as Adobe Creative Cloud, OBS Studio, Apple Music, and Paint.NET are also accessible through the Store. If you’re a developer creating an app for Windows, there’s no reason not to make your app available in the Microsoft Store right now.
Not only is it more user-friendly, but it’s also safer to use as well. Microsoft Store excels at highlighting apps from developers that are officially listed in their store. On the other hand, search engines like web browsers may prioritize sponsored links over the actual website where an app developer has uploaded their application, which is not always the case.
It’s high time we motivate more app creators to list their apps on our store, for this very reason. It’s disappointing that big names like Google and Valve are missing out, but the blame shouldn’t fall on them – it’s now up to the developers to ensure their apps are available here. After all, we no longer have any restrictions preventing them from being included in our store. Instead, let’s focus on encouraging the developers to step up and make their apps accessible to us.
It’s time to give the Microsoft Store another chance
If you’ve been avoiding the Microsoft Store due to its past reputation, it might be worth reconsidering. Today, the Microsoft Store has transformed into something quite different, adopting an open-platform philosophy that has led to a massive expansion of available apps. In fact, chances are good that many of the Windows apps you regularly use can now be found there.
If your apps aren’t yet available, now might be a good moment to motivate those developers to accelerate their progress. While Windows remains an open platform, giving app creators full freedom in distribution methods, listing their apps on the Microsoft Store could make discovery and download process smoother and safer for users.
Many apps available in the Microsoft Store can be downloaded without needing a Microsoft Account, which means if you’ve avoided it thinking it necessitates an online account, that assumption is incorrect. In truth, there’s no reason not to give it a shot and explore what it has to offer!
Of course, everything mentioned in this article also applies to Windows 10, not just Windows 11. Microsoft brought the Windows 11 version of the Microsoft Store to Windows 10, meaning all these improvements are also available on that platform. So give it a try if you’re still using Windows 10.
The troublesome period of the Microsoft Store on Windows, once criticized for its limited app options and difficult user experience, has come to an end. Now, it’s actually fantastic!
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2025-07-31 16:40