The Microsoft Store just got a major glow-up, and this time, Microsoft isn’t playing around. Released on December 5, 2024, the latest update delivers a faster, more feature-rich experience, making the Store more relevant for all Windows users, from casual app-browsers to IT professionals and developers entrenched in enterprise environments. Let’s unpack everything from quicker launch times and revamped navigation to the milestone update introducing Win32 legacy app support.
First thing’s first: speed. Microsoft promises a performance overhaul, including a 25% decrease in launch times. If you've ever silently cursed your computer while waiting for the Store to open like it’s stuck in 1995, this news might redeem it. Launch delays and sluggish navigation have long been a sore spot for users, but this change aims to smooth things out.
And guess what? Downloads have also gotten smarter. Gone are the days of staring blankly at the screen wondering if that progress bar is alive. In its place, we get a new progress bar design with real-time updates on completion percentages, file sizes, and, yes, the ability to cancel directly from the product page. It’s like Uber Eats for software—you always know where your app is.
On top of that, Microsoft claims to have reduced download stalls by 50%, addressing yet another lingering frustration. It’s about time, isn’t it?
This change isn’t just great for IT administrators; it also signals Microsoft’s attempt to bridge the gap between modern UWP (Universal Windows Platform) apps and legacy software. By welcoming Win32 apps, Microsoft makes the Store more inclusive and competitive with platforms like Steam or third-party repositories that have long dominated in flexibility.
But here’s the kicker: the feature is currently available only to Windows Insiders, meaning general users will need to wait for a broader rollout in future updates. Will this kill off manual installations entirely? Probably not, but it certainly streamlines workflows for developers and end-users alike.
The revamp doesn’t stop there. Product pages have been overhauled for a more engaging, visual experience:
Combine that with the 2024 Microsoft Store Awards, which highlight standout apps in categories like gaming and AI, and you’ve got a compelling reason for developers to jump on board. For users, it’s added assurance that top-tier quality apps are being actively curated.
But the integration of Win32 apps particularly stands out as a major strategic pivot. It positions the Store to finally compete against established app distribution ecosystems like Steam, the Apple App Store, and Google Play Store. By welcoming these proven-use-case legacy applications, Microsoft could even bring back users who wrote off the Store a decade ago as unnecessary bloatware.
For the first time in years, the Microsoft Store feels like it’s growing into the role it was meant to play: a one-stop shop for all your Windows needs.
What do you think? Is this update enough to make you an active Microsoft Store user, or is it too little too late? Share your thoughts below!
Source: WinBuzzer Microsoft Store Adds Win32 Legacy Apps, Enhances Management and User Experience - WinBuzzer
Making the Microsoft Store Actually Usable? Yes, Please!
First thing’s first: speed. Microsoft promises a performance overhaul, including a 25% decrease in launch times. If you've ever silently cursed your computer while waiting for the Store to open like it’s stuck in 1995, this news might redeem it. Launch delays and sluggish navigation have long been a sore spot for users, but this change aims to smooth things out.And guess what? Downloads have also gotten smarter. Gone are the days of staring blankly at the screen wondering if that progress bar is alive. In its place, we get a new progress bar design with real-time updates on completion percentages, file sizes, and, yes, the ability to cancel directly from the product page. It’s like Uber Eats for software—you always know where your app is.
On top of that, Microsoft claims to have reduced download stalls by 50%, addressing yet another lingering frustration. It’s about time, isn’t it?
The Return of the (Win32) King
The headline-grabber in this update is the expanded support for Win32 applications, which is basically a shout-out to all the legacy apps that still power a staggering number of businesses. These apps, which were mostly locked out of the Microsoft Store until now, rely on the Windows API and have been a staple for enterprise environments for decades. Finally, Microsoft is opening the gates with direct browser-based installations using its new Store Web Installer. No more need for clunky manual installation.This change isn’t just great for IT administrators; it also signals Microsoft’s attempt to bridge the gap between modern UWP (Universal Windows Platform) apps and legacy software. By welcoming Win32 apps, Microsoft makes the Store more inclusive and competitive with platforms like Steam or third-party repositories that have long dominated in flexibility.
But here’s the kicker: the feature is currently available only to Windows Insiders, meaning general users will need to wait for a broader rollout in future updates. Will this kill off manual installations entirely? Probably not, but it certainly streamlines workflows for developers and end-users alike.
App Organization Gets a Facelift
Another highlight of this upgrade is the introduction of redesigned app management pages, such as the Library and Updates & Downloads sections. Finally, these now feel less like a chaotic junk drawer and more like a neatly labeled filing cabinet.- The Library page now shows all apps tied to your Microsoft account, even the ones you haven’t installed yet. Trying to remember what app you downloaded three laptops ago? It’s right there.
- Over in Updates & Downloads, you can track active downloads, view pending updates, and check out what’s been recently installed. Microsoft has also added version notes for updates, giving you more transparency (and fewer WTF moments) when an app suddenly looks different.
Finding Apps Is Easier—and Prettier
The Microsoft Store wants to look good while working smarter. With reorganized navigation, apps, and games now slot into categories like "Strategy" and "Simulation," making it easier to browse by genre. It’s a simple change, sure, but one that could make all the difference in discovering apps that don’t start with “Microsoft” or “Minecraft.”The revamp doesn’t stop there. Product pages have been overhauled for a more engaging, visual experience:
- Trailers as headers: Do you love shiny promo material? Some apps and games with trailers now use them as page headers for a more immersive feel.
- Hero images: For apps lacking a trailer, static visuals step in. Oh, and you can control autoplay settings for these visuals, sparing you the irritation of an unwanted video blaring at full volume.
Win32 Support = More Apps, More Fun
Perhaps the real cherry on top is the expanding catalog of apps making their way to the Store. Alongside evergreen productivity tools like Microsoft Office, you now have popular heavy hitters such as ChatGPT, World of Warcraft, and Battle.net joining the roster. This isn’t just about the Store being a place to find apps; it’s about it being THE place to find them.Combine that with the 2024 Microsoft Store Awards, which highlight standout apps in categories like gaming and AI, and you’ve got a compelling reason for developers to jump on board. For users, it’s added assurance that top-tier quality apps are being actively curated.
The Big Picture: Why This Matters
Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to reimagine the Store show they’re serious about tackling two pain points: usability and relevance. Whether you’re a developer, IT administrator, or average user, the updates reflect an alignment with real-world feedback that many claimed was absent in earlier years.But the integration of Win32 apps particularly stands out as a major strategic pivot. It positions the Store to finally compete against established app distribution ecosystems like Steam, the Apple App Store, and Google Play Store. By welcoming these proven-use-case legacy applications, Microsoft could even bring back users who wrote off the Store a decade ago as unnecessary bloatware.
For the first time in years, the Microsoft Store feels like it’s growing into the role it was meant to play: a one-stop shop for all your Windows needs.
TL;DR (At a Glance)
- Speed Boost: 25% faster launch times, 50% fewer download stalls, and smarter progress bars.
- Win32 Update: Expanded Win32 app support plus browser-based installs through the Store Web Installer.
- Better Browsing: Cleaner navigation, genre classifications, and revamped visuals for product pages.
- Top-Notch Organization: New Library and Updates & Downloads pages make managing apps intuitive.
- More Content: A larger app catalog including ChatGPT, World of Warcraft, and productivity tools.
What do you think? Is this update enough to make you an active Microsoft Store user, or is it too little too late? Share your thoughts below!
Source: WinBuzzer Microsoft Store Adds Win32 Legacy Apps, Enhances Management and User Experience - WinBuzzer
Last edited:
