In an effort to streamline the experience of keeping your Windows apps up-to-date, Microsoft is rolling out a highly anticipated update for the Microsoft Store. This change represents a paradigm shift for those of us often buried under a mountain of manual app updates or juggling updates for apps sourced outside Microsoft’s servers.
Here’s the exciting detail: the Microsoft Store will now automatically enable updates for third-party apps that aren’t hosted on Microsoft’s servers. Yes, apps hosted by developers or external publishers can now be upgraded seamlessly via the store's "Get updates" button.
Let’s break this down and explore what it means for you as a Windows user!
Previously, the Microsoft Store primarily managed updates for apps hosted on Microsoft’s own servers. It was limited to its native domain. This meant any apps developed by third-party publishers but independently hosted couldn’t take advantage of the one-click updates from the Microsoft Store.
Now, Microsoft is altering its approach. With this update:
If you want to experience it firsthand, signing up as a Windows Insider could give you the head start you’re looking for.
Pro tip: Fortunately, Insiders can opt-in to their level of risk. Dev Channel users often get the earliest access to tools, while Beta Channel users see more polished iterations.
Picture this: a world where even elaborate tools, whether sourced through small-scale Devs or big-name publishers, become as streamlined as downloading Spotify. Endless downloads from third-party sites? Older versions clogging up your SSD space? Gone.
One glaring question remains: How soon will all developers jump aboard with the configuration changes needed to leverage this capability? Let’s hope Microsoft champions this sufficiently to encourage swift adoption.
For now, we await further rollouts with excitement. It’s refreshing to see Microsoft making life easier for software management across Windows—which frequently houses diverse tools cohabiting under one start button.
So, will this update revolutionize your user experience? Test it, and let us know, especially if you foresee any quirks worth flagging!
Source: PCWorld The Microsoft Store is ready to make updating Windows apps even easier
Here’s the exciting detail: the Microsoft Store will now automatically enable updates for third-party apps that aren’t hosted on Microsoft’s servers. Yes, apps hosted by developers or external publishers can now be upgraded seamlessly via the store's "Get updates" button.
Let’s break this down and explore what it means for you as a Windows user!
What’s Changing with Microsoft Store App Updates?
Previously, the Microsoft Store primarily managed updates for apps hosted on Microsoft’s own servers. It was limited to its native domain. This meant any apps developed by third-party publishers but independently hosted couldn’t take advantage of the one-click updates from the Microsoft Store.Now, Microsoft is altering its approach. With this update:
- Third-party apps listed in the Microsoft Store but hosted externally (like those on a developer’s private servers) can receive updates directly from within the store.
- These apps are visually distinguished in the update list with a label indicating they’re "provided and updated by" an external publisher or developer.
Who Can Use This Feature Today?
At present, this update is being offered to users enrolled in the Windows Insider Program. For the uninitiated, this program is Microsoft’s beta-testing ecosystem that lets tech enthusiasts and developers preview unreleased features. If you’re not part of the program, there’s no official timeline yet for this feature to reach the general public.If you want to experience it firsthand, signing up as a Windows Insider could give you the head start you’re looking for.
Pro tip: Fortunately, Insiders can opt-in to their level of risk. Dev Channel users often get the earliest access to tools, while Beta Channel users see more polished iterations.
How Do Third-Party Updates Work in Practice?
The mechanics of this update system remain simple and user-centric. Let’s map it out step by step:- Detection and Labeling: Once third-party apps configure their listings in the Microsoft Store, they are marked as “provided and updated by" the respective developer or publisher.
- Update Process: If there’s a new version of the application available, you simply select “Get updates” in the store. The app will update just like any Microsoft-hosted app already does.
- End-to-End Integration: While the update sources remain third-party-hosted, Microsoft integrates the user experience into a centralized interface. With no additional logins or redirections, it feels native and accessible.
Why Does This Matter?
The benefits are manifold:- Simpler Software Management: Users no longer need to chase updates across individual third-party platforms.
- A Trustworthy Ecosystem: Unlike downloads scattered all over the web, this feature keeps updates centralized via the official Microsoft Store—a less risky, more standardized approach to software distribution.
- Encouraging App Adoption: Developers hesitant to host apps on Microsoft’s servers but anxious for streamlined installs benefit as much, if not more, than users.
- Reduced Fragmentation: This move helps Microsoft consolidate its ecosystem to rival app stores on mobile operating systems like iOS and Android, where updating apps is famously frictionless.
Limitations You Should Know
Microsoft, however, hasn’t opened the floodgates entirely just yet. Here are a few conditions to keep in mind:- No Universal Coverage: Apps installed outside the Microsoft Store remain excluded. Programs like portable executables or niche utilities won’t magically gain auto-update support unless pulled into the Store ecosystem.
- Developer Opt-in: For this new system to function smoothly, publishers and developers must properly configure their app listings. This means some programs might take longer to become eligible for this new update feature—particularly apps from niche platforms.
A Glimpse into the Future
Microsoft’s update to the Store is clearly part of its larger vision to modernize the Windows platform. By removing barriers for developers and users alike, they’re fine-tuning the ecosystem into a more cohesive and intuitive experience.Picture this: a world where even elaborate tools, whether sourced through small-scale Devs or big-name publishers, become as streamlined as downloading Spotify. Endless downloads from third-party sites? Older versions clogging up your SSD space? Gone.
One glaring question remains: How soon will all developers jump aboard with the configuration changes needed to leverage this capability? Let’s hope Microsoft champions this sufficiently to encourage swift adoption.
Is Windows Insider a Must-Have?
If this article has sparked your interest or you’re itching to try features like this one, joining Windows Insider might be your ticket. It’s Microsoft’s playground where tools (in progress) meet your eager hands—often well ahead of the curve. Just keep in mind the inherent instability of beta-testing software before committing your main desktop. Proceed with caution.For now, we await further rollouts with excitement. It’s refreshing to see Microsoft making life easier for software management across Windows—which frequently houses diverse tools cohabiting under one start button.
So, will this update revolutionize your user experience? Test it, and let us know, especially if you foresee any quirks worth flagging!
Source: PCWorld The Microsoft Store is ready to make updating Windows apps even easier
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