Microsoft is enhancing the Windows Package Manager (WinGet) to allow users to download Microsoft Store apps, particularly as the Microsoft Store for Business and Education approaches retirement. This feature enables offline app distribution, ensuring users can still access packaged applications even with limited connectivity. 2. **Unique **:

“`html

Downloading Microsoft Store Apps with Windows Package Manager

Microsoft has introduced a significant update to the Windows Package Manager (WinGet) that enhances app downloading capabilities. This change is crucial as it prepares users for the upcoming retirement of the Microsoft Store for Business and Education.

What’s New?

The latest version, 1.8, allows users to download packaged apps directly from the Microsoft Store. This feature is particularly useful for organizations with devices that have limited connectivity to the Microsoft Store. As Carlos Britos and Jason Sandys from Microsoft state:

“Offline apps allow customers to download packaged apps from the Microsoft Store for Business or Education for distribution.”

This update ensures that users can still access necessary applications even as the Microsoft Store for Business is phased out.

Major Updates to WinGet

With the new version of WinGet, users can easily download apps using a command line interface. Packaged apps include UWP apps in AppX format and MSIX format. Unpackaged apps, such as Win32 apps, are also available for download.

To download an app, users can simply search for it using:

winget search "remote desktop" --source MSStore

Once the package ID is identified, downloading is straightforward:

winget download --id 9WZDNCRFJ3PS

This command initiates the download process, creating a dedicated folder for the app in the user’s profile directory.

What’s Important to Know?

While this feature is beneficial, it comes with limitations. The download capability is restricted to packaged apps where the publisher has allowed offline licensing and distribution. Therefore, not all apps will be available for download.

Additionally, users must authenticate through Microsoft Entra to proceed with the download. A role such as Global Administrator is required for successful authentication.

“Downloading a Microsoft Store app using WinGet is straightforward,” the Microsoft team emphasizes.

This update not only streamlines app management but also aligns with Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience across its platforms. As the tech landscape evolves, staying informed about these changes is essential for maximizing productivity.

“`

WinGet version 1.8 introduces the ability to download Microsoft Store apps.

The Microsoft Store for Business and Education will retire on August 15, 2024.

Offline app functionality will cease with the retirement of the Store for Business.

Only packaged apps with permitted offline licensing can be downloaded via WinGet.

WinGet utilizes Delivery Optimization for efficient app downloads from the Store.

“`

From the Intune Customer Success articles

---