The Microsoft Store Awards have once again spotlighted exceptional applications that enhance user experiences, boost productivity, and ignite creativity within the Windows ecosystem. This year’s winners exemplify not only technical excellence but also user satisfaction and transformative potential, showcasing the vibrant innovation that thrives in the Microsoft Store community.
AI Assistants category
This year, the AI Assistants category saw a tie, with both winners earning recognition for their remarkable contributions.
- Winner: Perplexity by Perplexity AI
- Winner: ChatGPT by OpenAI
Perplexity’s Windows application stands out with its native voice dictation, multi-modal AI search, and deep desktop integration, facilitating rapid research. The app’s advanced AI models, Pro Search, and guided deep research modes allow for interactive exploration, while IT policies and keyboard shortcuts cater to both personal and enterprise workflows. Its enhanced accessibility and seamless integration establish Perplexity as a leader in AI-driven knowledge discovery.
ChatGPT for Windows provides instant answers through the Alt + Space companion window, enabling direct image and file uploads alongside robust enterprise-level privacy controls. Mirroring the web experience, the app introduces unique Windows-only productivity enhancements, including IT policy controls and a privacy-first approach tailored for business users. Its intuitive interface and effective integration make ChatGPT an essential tool for individuals and organizations alike.
Business category
- Winner: Invoice Maker & Estimate Creator by Moon Technolabs Pvt. Ltd.
Moon Invoice’s Invoice Maker & Estimate Creator streamlines business finance tasks with customizable templates, allowing for instant printing and sharing via WhatsApp or email. The dashboard analytics provide real-time tracking of payments and expenses, while support for multiple payment gateways ensures flexibility for freelancers and SMEs. With secure digital record-keeping and rapid document sharing, this app serves as a comprehensive solution for business owners seeking efficiency and control.
Computer-Using Agents (CUA) category
- Winner: Manus by Manus AI
Manus for Windows revolutionizes automation with its Computer-Using Agent (CUA) architecture. Operating within a secure sandbox, Manus autonomously executes complex, multi-step tasks, from running code to managing files and deploying applications. Its “Manus’s Computer” interface allows users to observe and guide ongoing actions live, while a multi-agent system efficiently plans and executes workflows such as data analysis and content creation. With detailed context retention and strict security measures, Manus emerges as a powerful digital assistant for professionals seeking robust automation solutions.
Creativity category
- Winner: n-Track Studio by n-Track S.r.I.
n-Track Studio transforms Windows devices into fully equipped recording studios, supporting unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, advanced effects, and custom sound imports. The app’s cross-platform workflow fosters collaboration among creators, while AI-powered tools and VST plugin support enhance its appeal for both professionals and hobbyists alike.
Developer Tools category
- Winner: ngrok by ngrok
ngrok for Windows facilitates secure tunneling and remote access, ensuring automatic updates and compatibility with Windows Defender. Developers can run ngrok as a background service, benefiting from its integration with Windows security and app management tools. This trusted solution extends to Microsoft and enterprise environments, enabling teams to deliver faster while maintaining security.
Education category
- Winner: Scratch 3 by Scratch Foundation
Scratch 3 empowers students to build confidence in computational thinking through engaging projects, programming interactive stories, games, and robotics. In classroom settings, learners visualize logic with block coding and receive instant feedback, enhancing problem-solving skills and creativity. With extensions for Bluetooth and hardware, students can connect code to real-world devices, delivering inclusive STEM lessons that cater to various skill levels.
Game category
- Winner: Castle Craft by Clever Apps Pte Ltd
Castle Craft offers an immersive gaming experience, utilizing Windows hardware for dynamic resource merging and time-travel exploration. Players can construct kingdoms and embark on heroic quests, enjoying vivid graphics and adaptive controls. The game’s family-friendly design and robust security features ensure engaging gameplay for all ages.
Music category
- Winner: Moises Live by Moises Systems, Inc
Moises Live sets a new benchmark for music applications by leveraging real-time AI audio separation technology. Users can isolate vocals, instruments, and dialogue, facilitating remixing and practice with unprecedented control. The app includes a Karaoke mode for any track, allowing users to sing along or create custom mixes instantly. With system-wide audio control and seamless integration, Moises Live empowers creators and educators to achieve studio-level results from their desktops.
Productivity category
- Winner: Notion by Notion Labs Inc
Notion for Windows consolidates scattered tasks and notes into a single, searchable workspace. Teams can automate busywork with templated workflows, enhancing efficiency in task management. Native Windows integration facilitates quick access and offline usability, allowing users to focus on design and decision-making without unnecessary context switching.
Congratulations to all winners!
Each winner will be honored in the Microsoft Store with a Store Award Winner badge, symbolizing their significant contributions to the Windows community. Appreciation goes out to all developers for their dedication and innovation, as we anticipate another year filled with groundbreaking applications.
For highlights from the Microsoft Store Awards in China, please visit our official WeChat blog.
