Microsoft has finally decided to inject some much-needed evolution into the Windows 11 experience, and this time, it's all about app management. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes while manually updating your third-party apps scattered across various sources, this one’s for you. Soon, Microsoft Store will allow Windows 11 users to update non-Microsoft apps directly—a significant improvement that could save time and make life easier for many.
Let’s break down what’s shifting, why it matters, and what it means for the future of app management on Windows.
Enter the new update system: Windows 11's Microsoft Store will now list updates for third-party apps, even if these apps aren’t physically stored on Microsoft’s servers. When users click on the familiar "Get updates" button within the Store's Downloads section, not only will updates for native Microsoft apps appear, but updates for apps by other developers will too!
Initially being tested within the Windows Insider Program, this feature showcases third-party updates in a streamlined, unified interface. The updates come marked with “provided and updated” labels for clarity. However, it’s worth noting that Microsoft-hosted apps will still update automatically, while third-party apps will require manual user intervention to apply updates.
So, fire up the Insider Program and keep your Microsoft Store ready—because, finally, your app update headaches might be a thing of the past. The future is centralized (well, almost).
Source: TechRadar Finally! Windows 11’s Microsoft Store will soon let you update non-Microsoft apps
Let’s break down what’s shifting, why it matters, and what it means for the future of app management on Windows.
The Big Change: Third-Party App Updates in Microsoft Store
Up until now, Microsoft’s app update ecosystem in Windows 11 was limited to applications hosted on its very own servers. While you could discover a variety of third-party apps (think VLC Media Player or WinRAR) in the Store, updating them wasn’t so straightforward since some of these apps were hosted and managed on their developers' systems. This left users playing digital detective, chasing updates from different developer websites—a tedious process, to say the least.Enter the new update system: Windows 11's Microsoft Store will now list updates for third-party apps, even if these apps aren’t physically stored on Microsoft’s servers. When users click on the familiar "Get updates" button within the Store's Downloads section, not only will updates for native Microsoft apps appear, but updates for apps by other developers will too!
Initially being tested within the Windows Insider Program, this feature showcases third-party updates in a streamlined, unified interface. The updates come marked with “provided and updated” labels for clarity. However, it’s worth noting that Microsoft-hosted apps will still update automatically, while third-party apps will require manual user intervention to apply updates.
Why This Matters: The Convenience Factor
This move positions the Microsoft Store as a serious contender in modern app ecosystems. Here’s how this feature upgrades the user experience:1. A Centralized Hub for Updates
No more hopping between countless websites or separate app updaters. Everything appears in one list—native apps, third-party apps, you name it. It’s a time-saver that lessens dependency on labor-intensive manual updates.2. Encouraging Developers to Use Microsoft Store
This feature may nudge more independent developers to host their apps on the platform. Why? Because they can maintain their own servers and still have Microsoft Store showcase their updates, combining control with convenience.3. Enhanced Security
Installing updates without going to unfamiliar, possibly phishing-laden websites is a big win for cybersecurity. Even if you have to manually apply updates, knowing you’re directed from a trusted store mitigates risk.4. Simplified Software Maintenance
Managing application updates goes from a disjointed effort to an effortless click. With nearly every essential app available for updates in one place, this new functionality reduces friction—and frustration.How It Works: Tinkering Under the Hood
Alright, so how is Microsoft pulling this off? The feature doesn't require developers to completely host their apps with Microsoft—an important distinction. Here's the anatomy of this update:- Download Source Independence: Microsoft Store will pull update information from third-party developers' servers while maintaining the interface locally within your system.
- Metadata Integration: The Store scans metadata provided by these developers to determine when an update is available. This information is served up to users seamlessly when the update list is refreshed via the “Get updates” option.
- On-Demand Updates: Because third-party apps are controlled externally, you'll still need to click “Update” for those apps to fetch their latest patches.
What’s Still Missing? The Fine Print
While this move is exciting for Windows users, it's not a complete utopia just yet. Here are some areas where Microsoft has room to grow:- Automatic Updates for Third-Party Apps: While convenient, the lack of auto-updates for apps not hosted by Microsoft means users still need to manually approve updates—a potential headache for forgetful or casual users.
- Limited to Microsoft Store Apps: This feature applies only to apps available through the Microsoft Store. Software downloaded elsewhere (say, directly from a developer’s site) won’t automatically appear in this nifty unified update list.
- Developer Buy-In: Not every app maker will immediately embrace this change. Reaping the full benefits of these updates depends on how widely developers adopt this system.
Going Beyond: How Does This Stack Up to Other Platforms?
Microsoft isn’t reinventing the wheel here. In fact, this functionality aligns Windows 11 more closely with what’s already considered industry standard. Here's how it compares to other ecosystems:- Google Play Store & Apple App Store: Both platforms have long allowed updates for third-party apps seamlessly alongside native software. Microsoft is finally catching up to these polished ecosystems.
- Linux's Package Managers: While tech-savvy, Linux users have enjoyed centralized software updates for ages via package managers like APT and YUM. Both Microsoft and macOS have struggled to provide this level of cross-app compatibility with updates—though this new feature is a notable leap forward.
What’s Next for Microsoft Store? Predictions and Hopes
This new feature is more than a gimmick—it’s Microsoft signaling that they want to make the Store a genuinely useful, go-to application hub. If executed well, it could rekindle user engagement and trust in the Store. Here’s what this might lead to:- More Third-Party Apps Moving to Microsoft Store: Developers now have more control over hosting while offering users the convenience of centralized updates. As this takes off, expect app diversity in the Store to expand significantly.
- Further Integration of AI and Automation: Picture Cortana (or Windows Copilot) suggesting updates, reminding users to get the latest features, or helping diagnose why an update isn’t applying properly. AI-driven tools could further enhance this concept.
- Improved Support for Enterprise Applications: Businesses running critical third-party software can benefit greatly if this feature evolves into an automatic, policy-controlled update system tailored for large teams.
Quick Tips: How to Use This New Feature
Curious how you'll get started? Here’s the lowdown:- Enroll in the Windows Insider Program for early access to this feature. It'll likely make its public debut in a future Windows 11 update.
- Navigate to the Microsoft Store and head to the Downloads section.
- Click “Get updates”—and revel in the sight of all your apps, Microsoft or otherwise, ready for action.
Final Take: A Step in the Right Direction
This update brings Microsoft closer to reaching the user-friendly, one-stop-shop utopia it has long promised but never quite delivered. It bridges a glaring gap in Windows’ ecosystem by combining third-party freedom with centralized control. While not flawless, it’s a move that will undoubtedly resonate with Windows enthusiasts.So, fire up the Insider Program and keep your Microsoft Store ready—because, finally, your app update headaches might be a thing of the past. The future is centralized (well, almost).
Source: TechRadar Finally! Windows 11’s Microsoft Store will soon let you update non-Microsoft apps