Throughout 2024, the Microsoft Store app on both Windows 11 and 10 has undergone a series of significant updates, enhancing its functionality and user experience. As the year draws to a close, Microsoft has taken the opportunity to highlight some of the most impactful changes made to its app marketplace.
Revamped Library Section
One of the standout modifications is the reimagined Library section, now divided into two distinct categories: Update and Library. The Update section is specifically designed for app updates, complete with detailed changelogs and version numbers. Meanwhile, the Library section allows users to effortlessly browse through all their owned content, including apps, games, movies, and more. For those with extensive libraries, the introduction of a dedicated search bar simplifies the process of locating specific items.
Enhanced Product Listings
The product listing pages have also seen considerable improvements. A newly designed install progress bar now displays both the app’s size and the completion percentage, making it particularly useful for larger applications and games. Additionally, the gaming experience has been refined with improved categories and quick links, allowing users to navigate to their preferred genre with ease. For an engaging touch, trailers now play automatically upon opening a product page, with a hero image displayed in the absence of a trailer.
Performance Optimizations
While some changes may not be immediately visible, they are no less significant. Microsoft has implemented optimizations that enhance the app’s overall performance, achieving a remarkable reduction in launch time by up to 25%. Furthermore, developers have addressed various bugs that previously caused app downloads to stall, resulting in a 50% decrease in failed downloads.
Additional Features and Awards
Other noteworthy enhancements to the Microsoft Store include a revamped web installation experience, support for Win32 app web installers, and improved search and recommendation features. In addition, Microsoft recently hosted its annual Microsoft Store App Awards, celebrating the best in app innovation and design. This year, the store welcomed a variety of popular applications, including ChatGPT, Arc, and Fantastical, further enriching the user experience.
For those interested in a more detailed exploration of these updates, additional information can be found in a blog post on the official Microsoft website.
