Microsoft has announced the launch of a new web app store for Windows, which aims to make finding and downloading apps and games easier and faster. The new web app store is built with modern web technologies and offers a fresh user interface, improved search functionality, and better app discovery.
A new web app store from scratch
The new web app store is not just a redesign of the existing Microsoft Store app on Windows, but a completely new web front that can be accessed from any browser. The web app store was built from scratch using web components, such as Lit, Shoelace, Vite, and PWA Builder. It also runs on a C# ASP.NET backend.
According to Microsoft engineer Judah Gabriel, who announced the launch on Twitter, the old web app store was based on a React codebase that used an obsolete UI framework. The new web app store, on the other hand, has a thoughtfully designed interface that is more intuitive and seamless.
Improved search and app discovery
One of the main features of the new web app store is the enhanced search functionality, which allows users to quickly find the apps or games they are looking for. Users can also see a preview of their search results in a drop-down menu, which shows the name, icon, rating, category, description, and price of each app or game.
The new web app store also offers better app discovery, with curated collections, featured apps, top charts, and categories. Users can browse through different genres and themes of apps and games, such as productivity, education, entertainment, action, adventure, and more. Users can also see reviews and ratings from other users, as well as screenshots and videos of the apps and games.
How to access the new web app store
The new web app store can be accessed from any browser by visiting apps.microsoft.com. Users can also access it from the Microsoft Store app on Windows by clicking on the “See more in Microsoft Store” link at the bottom of each page. The new web app store is compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices.
The new web app store is part of Microsoft’s efforts to improve the Windows ecosystem and provide a better experience for users and developers. Microsoft has also revamped its Teams app for Windows and Mac recently, and is expected to launch Windows 11 later this month.
