Microsoft makes it easier to download free apps on Windows 11

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by Radu Tyrsina 

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Microsoft has made some major improvements to the Microsoft Store with its latest releases to both the Canary and Dev Channels. And one of the major changes shipping with these releases is that users will now be able to download both free games and apps from the Microsoft Store easily.

Now, instead of having to navigate to the product page, users can make downloads directly from search results. However, this only applies to free apps and games, it’s not yet clear if this new capability will be rolled out to purchased apps and games.

New design when purchasing apps and games in the Store.

According to Microsoft:

Install free apps and games from search results: We’ve introduced a new way to install free apps and games. Hovering over a free product on the search results page opens a new expanded card experience, where you can find a convenient install button. This will trigger the installation without having to navigate into the product page.

It’s also worth noting that you must be running 22303.1401.x of the Microsoft Store or higher. Additionally, the company has also incorporated a “new and redesigned experience” for users when purchasing apps from the Microsoft Store. The new fluent design aligns with Windows 11.

New design when purchasing apps and games in the Store.

The new experience also features a new UX for in-app ratings dialog which is faster, more reliable, and lastly aligned with Windows 11’s design.

New UX for in-app ratings dialog in the Store.

Share your thoughts in regards to the new changes made on the Microsoft Store in the comments below.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina Shield

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time). For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web. Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they're looking for.