Microsoft Opens Windows Store to Third-Party App Stores

Expanding the Windows 11 App Ecosystem

Microsoft’s stated desire for a more diverse range of third-party app stores within Windows 11 was not merely aspirational. Recent updates to the Microsoft Store policies now explicitly permit the inclusion of applications functioning as storefronts from external developers.

Notably, Amazon’s Appstore is not the sole partner taking advantage of this new opportunity. The Epic Games Store is also slated to become available through the Microsoft Store within the coming months.

As previously indicated, Microsoft will refrain from imposing any revenue-sharing requirements on these external storefronts.

Increased Browser Choice

The relaxation of policies concerning web browsers is also yielding positive results. Browsers built on engines other than Microsoft’s are now permitted.

Consequently, both Opera and Yandex Browser are set to be listed on the Microsoft Store, offering users alternatives to Microsoft Edge.

While these additions may not significantly alter the behavior of users who immediately opt to download Chrome or Firefox, they demonstrate Microsoft’s willingness to embrace a degree of competition within its own application marketplace.

Key Benefits of the Changes

• Greater choice for Windows 11 users.
• Increased competition among app stores.
• No revenue sharing imposed by Microsoft on third-party stores.
• Expanded browser options within the Microsoft Store.