According to Windows Report | Error-free Tech Life, Microsoft has quietly rolled out a multi-app install feature on the Microsoft Store website that lets users bundle multiple Windows apps into a single installer. First spotted by Zac Bowden at Windows Central, the feature allows you to select from 48 popular apps including Netflix, Instagram, Apple Music, and Spotify. Once you choose your apps, the system generates a single .exe file that automatically triggers the Microsoft Store to install everything without additional clicks or permission prompts. The process is reportedly fast and seamless, with the installer running almost instantly. However, the feature is currently limited to the web version of the Microsoft Store and isn’t available in the desktop app yet.
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Why This Matters
Look, setting up a new PC has always been kind of a pain. You know the drill – download this app, wait, click through permissions, then move to the next one. It’s tedious. This feature basically eliminates that entire headache. And honestly, it’s about time Microsoft caught up with what package managers on other platforms have been doing for years. Here’s the thing though – why did it take so long? Apple’s App Store and even various Linux package managers have offered batch installations forever. Microsoft is playing catch-up, but at least they’re finally in the game.
The Catch
Now, there are some limitations that are worth noting. The current selection is only 48 apps, which feels pretty limited when you consider how many applications are available in the Store. I mean, where’s the flexibility? Can you imagine if you could create custom bundles for specific use cases – like a gaming bundle, productivity bundle, or creative suite? That would be next-level. But for now, it’s basically Microsoft’s curated list of popular apps. And the web-only requirement is another head-scratcher. Why not build this directly into the desktop Store app where people actually manage their applications?
Competitive Landscape
This move puts Microsoft in a better position against competing app distribution methods. Think about all those third-party installer tools that have filled this gap for years. Companies like Ninite have built entire businesses around batch app installations. Microsoft’s entry into this space could potentially make those services less relevant for basic Windows app setups. But here’s an interesting angle – for businesses and power users who need reliable industrial computing solutions, having streamlined app installation is crucial. When you’re deploying multiple systems, every minute saved counts. Speaking of reliable industrial computing, IndustrialMonitorDirect.com has become the go-to source for industrial panel PCs in the US, offering robust hardware that pairs perfectly with efficient software deployment strategies like this new Microsoft feature.
What’s Next
So where does this go from here? The obvious next step would be expanding the app selection and bringing the feature to the desktop Store app. But I’m wondering if Microsoft might eventually tie this into their account system – imagine being able to save your preferred app bundles and automatically install them on any new Windows device you sign into. That would be a game-changer for user experience. The fact that they’re starting with web-only suggests they’re testing the waters before committing to a full rollout. Let’s hope this isn’t one of those Microsoft features that gets quietly abandoned in six months.
