Microsoft has recently put an emphasis on AI in its Windows app store, renewing the store following the launch of Windows 11. The store now features a new AI-centric section highlighting AI-specific apps and introducing AI-generated review summaries and tags to help developers make their apps more discoverable. Furthermore, Windows users now have the opportunity to access apps of all types, ranging from native apps to progressive web, Android and Flutter apps, all accessible through the central store. Microsoft has also provided a commerce platform, allowing developers to keep 100% of their revenues. Giorgio Sardo, the General Manager of the Microsoft Store, has expressed his satisfaction with their progress, with over 50% of users buying a new Windows device making use of the store in their first 30 days.
Microsoft has additionally launched an AI hub, featured in the left sidebar alongside other core sections such as Apps, Games, Movies and TV shows. This hub gives users the opportunity to explore apps like Luminar Neo, Lensa, Descript, Podcastl and Copy.ai. To further support developers, Microsoft has also announced changes to Microsoft Store Ads, available on Bing.com for relevant search results and accessible worldwide. Additionally, developers can now create high impact ads featured in the Spotlight section, which is the large featured section at the top of the store.
Overall, this update is not only a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to openness in the Windows ecosystem, but also to the shift of the company’s focus towards AI and their effort to make sure Windows users are fully aware of all the available apps and services.
