Microsoft brings Progressive Web Apps to the Windows Store

Microsoft’s Windows Store will get Progressive Web Apps next year that can run in the Edge browser. Microsoft is actively looking for high-quality Progressive Web Apps to be able to distribute them through the Store.

Developers can submit their Progressive Web Apps to Microsoft themselves for inclusion in the Windows Store, but Microsoft will also index them on the web. The company then converts them into the appx format from apps in the Store, after which users can find them in the download store. Microsoft made the announcement this week at its Edge Web Summit.

Microsoft focuses on indexing apps with a “high-quality user experience”, but the company does not clarify what requirements apps must meet to receive this stamp. Initially, Microsoft will index a limited selection of apps, but the company will expand this in the coming months.

Progressive Web Apps are web apps that work on different platforms and screen sizes and can also be used offline. In addition, PWAs can tap into the functionality of operating systems and, for example, send notifications. For example, on Windows 10, they can support Live Tiles and the Action Center. Microsoft itself develops its Teams app as a pwa. Starting next year, Edge will receive support for PWAs, but Windows Insiders will be able to use them from October.