Windows 11’s Microsoft Store update will make it easier than ever to find any app you’ve ever installed
Microsoft is testing an updated library experience in the Microsoft Store.
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What you need to know
Windows Insiders running the latest builds from the Dev and Canary Channels can test an improved Microsoft Store experience as well.Microsoft announcedseveral changes to the Microsoft Store earlier this week, all of which are available to those running Windows 11 version 22407.xxxx.x and higher.
The latest version of the Microsoft Store includes an updated library experience, a new page for updates and downloads, support for limited time events, and an updated Microsoft Store badge.
The default filter within the library page has been changed to show all the apps you own rather than just the ones you have installed. Release notes also appear within that section of the store. A new search bar makes it easier to find the name or publisher of an app.
The updates and downloads section of the Microsoft Store now shows a list of active downloads and pending updates along the top. It also shows recent updates to help you ensure you have the correct versions of your apps.
Microsoft is only experimenting with limited time events in the Microsoft Store. The feature shows programs with in-app events in a dedicated section of the store.
The improvements to the Microsoft Store are rolling out gradually to those running Dev and Canary builds of Windows 11. You may not see the changes right away. Below are the highlights, as shared by Microsoft.
Microsoft Store update: August 2024
An updated library experience
In this update, we are introducing changes to the library page. First, we have improved the default filters to show all the products you own, not just products that are installed (you can still toggle this filter if you wish). Next, we’ve added a search bar that will help you find the name or the publisher of products you’re looking for. Combined with the first change, this new experience is powerful: you can easily find any app and game you’ve ever acquired with your Microsoft account.
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A new page for updates and downloads
We are also moving the list of updates and downloads from the top section of the library to its own dedicated page. This new page displays your list of active downloads or pending updates, and it shows the list of recent installs or updates. Version notes will also be displayed for a pending update or active download.
Limited time events
We are experimenting with a new section on the Games page in some regions that will showcase select partners with in-app events. We have partnered with game publishers to highlight real events that will be occurring during the test period.
The updated Microsoft Store badge is here!
We’ve refreshed the design of the Microsoft Store badge with a more refined call-to-action to give users more confidence to acquire your app.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
