Microsoft Store Update: Unified App Management on Windows 11

Microsoft is stepping up its game in improving the app management experience on Windows 11 by introducing a ground-breaking feature for its Microsoft Store. For years, users have craved a one-stop solution for updating all their apps in a straightforward, intuitive way, and now Microsoft appears to be delivering just that. Recently revealed in a testing phase, the Microsoft Store will now support updates for apps that aren't hosted on its servers—a bold leap forward in accessibility and functionality.
If you're using Windows 11 and have been exasperated by juggling multiple update tools for apps sourced outside the traditional Microsoft Store ecosystem, breathe easy—this update could simplify your life.

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The Looming Changes in Microsoft Store Dynamics​

Here’s the crux of the announcement. Historically, only apps hosted directly on Microsoft's servers could be updated via the Microsoft Store. Third-party apps—or to be precise, apps listed in the Microsoft Store but sourced from developers' own servers—were a blind spot in the Store’s infrastructure. Users of these "provided and updated by" apps have had to manually look for updates using external mechanisms outside the Store interface.
Microsoft's latest update, currently being trialed with Windows Insiders across all channels, rethinks this model. Now, these third-party apps will be visible in the Microsoft Store's “Get Updates” section. While store-hosted apps will continue to update automatically, users will be able to manually update their non-store hosted apps with just a few clicks. It’s like giving your app ecosystem the unified update station it has always deserved.

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How Does It Work?​

Let’s break down what’s really happening under the hood here:

1. "Provided and Updated By" Apps Integration:
   • Already listed in the Microsoft Store, these apps are previously retrieved directly from the developer's infrastructure, bypassing Microsoft's servers altogether.
   • Now, after this update rolls out, updates for these apps will be fetched and listed within the Microsoft Store.
2. Manual Update Process for Third-Party Apps:
   • You’ll need to click on the update button within the Store after selecting "Get Updates." However, store-hosted apps will still enjoy automatic updates.
3. Behind the Scenes: Why Does It Matter?
   • Previously, handling third-party updates required various fragmented tools (like custom update checkers from the developers, standalone installers, or even websites).
   • Now, with everything within the Microsoft Store, users can experience an upgrade to convenience while reducing the risk of inadvertently running outdated software—a boon for cybersecurity!

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Why This Is a Huge Deal for Users​

Let’s take a moment to appreciate why this relatively small-sounding update is actually a big deal:

• Centralization of Updates: Treating the Microsoft Store as a “universal hub” is a giant leap toward app-update utopia. This is especially helpful to power users managing diverse app ecosystems that include both Store-hosted and non-store-hosted software.
• Improved Security Posture: Third-party apps hosted outside major ecosystems are often the Achilles' heel of operating systems because users forget to update them. By consolidating updates in one place, the chances of running vulnerable versions of apps shrink significantly.
• Streamlined Workflow for IT Admins: Businesses and sysadmins relying on Win32 apps often face hurdles when dealing with updates across scattered sources. This new feature allows IT admins to centralize source-update management more effectively.
• Better User Confidence in the Store: Microsoft benefits here too. By making the Store more relevant and functional for users, it's likely to renew interest in using the platform over its competition (think Steam, Epic Games Launcher, etc., where non-standardized update methods still dominate).

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But There’s a Catch: The Manual Update Factor​

While this change is a clear step forward, it's worth noting that third-party apps still won’t enjoy automatic updates. This limitation could leave some users disappointed because the “manual update” requirement for external apps doesn’t fit the full hands-off modern workflow.
For now, users must remember to check for app updates regularly or risk missing new functionality and vital patches. Though this intermediate step opens a gateway to integration, there's room for evolution in how seamless updates could become in future iterations.

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Step-by-Step: How to Update These Third-Party Apps in the Microsoft Store​

Want to try this feature once it rolls out? Follow these steps to see third-party updates in action:

1. Open Microsoft Store:
   • Launch the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 machine.
2. Go to the Downloads Page:
   • Navigate to the “Downloads and updates” section from the Store menu.
3. Click “Get Updates”:
   • The Store will now list any pending updates, including apps that are “Provided and Updated By” external publishers.
4. Manually Click the “Update” Button for Third-Party Apps:
   • Unlike apps hosted on Microsoft's servers, which automatically update, you’ll need to trigger third-party app updates individually.

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A Glimpse Into What Comes Next​

This development is yet another symbol of the increasing emphasis Microsoft is putting on giving users a unified app ecosystem. While traditional OS-specific app update mechanisms often lag behind app store integration (yes, we’re looking at you, Android Play Store), this move elevates the Microsoft Store closer to that benchmark. However, it also poses intriguing questions:

• Will Microsoft Store ever support true automatic updates for non-store hosted apps?
• Could this inspire third-party developers to leverage the Store even more heavily for app distribution?

It’s also curious how such a move will align with "Project Hudson Valley," Microsoft's rumored substance-over-flash initiative for app ecosystem improvements. Balancing transparency on update mechanisms with ease-of-use remains a critical challenge for Microsoft developers.

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Final Impressions: An Update Worth Watching​

Microsoft often plays the long game when it comes to features like these, so while current users may muse over what might feel like a “half-step forward” with delayed automation, the benefits are too tangible to ignore. Even if we’re not yet at the automatic everything-everywhere future, this centralized solution makes a powerful argument for staying within the Microsoft ecosystem.
So—Windows 11 users, rejoice! Your Microsoft Store is about to level up in usability like never before, turning a once-overlooked service into an essential tool. The best part? This move reflects Microsoft's commitment to listening to user demands—but only time will tell how effectively it changes the game for app management.
Keep your eyes peeled for the stable rollout, and let us know in the comments on WindowsForum.com: How do you think this update will impact your day-to-day updates? ✍

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Source: Windows Central The Microsoft Store on Windows 11 is about to get even more useful