Microsoft has recently shared an insightful recap of the enhancements and features introduced to the Microsoft Store for Windows 11 and 10 throughout 2024. As the year draws to a close, the tech giant has rolled out one final update aimed at simplifying the process of updating Win32 applications within the Microsoft Store.
Streamlined Updates for Win32 Applications
This latest update coincides with the release of Windows 11 build 27758 from the Canary Channel. Users can now update Win32 applications that utilize external update mechanisms directly through the Microsoft Store, provided they are marked with a “provided and updated” badge. Previously, users had to navigate through the individual applications to initiate updates.
It’s important to note that while these applications can now be updated via the Microsoft Store, they will not update automatically. Users must still visit the library section or the specific app’s store page and click on “Update” to initiate the process. In contrast, all other apps hosted within the Microsoft Store continue to benefit from automatic background updates.
In the official announcement, Microsoft elaborated:
For Win32 apps that are “provided and updated” by their publishers, the Microsoft Store will now support updating directly in the Store. Previously, these apps could only be updated outside of the Microsoft Store. Insiders can head to the Downloads page and click Get Updates. If any installed apps of this type have updates, it’ll be displayed on the pending list. You can perform the update by clicking the update button; it won’t start automatically.
Windows Insiders across all channels running Microsoft Store version 22411.1401.x.x and higher will experience these enhancements, marking a significant step forward in user convenience.
For those interested in further details, the complete announcement and the changelog for Windows 11 build 27758 can be found on the official Windows Insider Blog.
