Stay ahead with breaking tech news, gadget reviews, AI & software innovations, cybersecurity tips, start‑up trends, and step‑by‑step how‑tos.
Microsoft Unveils New Command-Line Interface For The microsoft Store
Table of Contents
- 1. Microsoft Unveils New Command-Line Interface For The microsoft Store
- 2. Key Capabilities Of Store CLI
- 3. Store CLI Versus WinGet: A Comparative Look
- 4. Getting Started With Store CLI
- 5. How can I use the Store CLI to install, update, or uninstall Microsoft Store apps?
- 6. Microsoft Introduces Store CLI: Manage Microsoft Store Apps from the Command Line
- 7. What is the Store CLI?
- 8. Core Functionality: Commands You Need to Know
- 9. Enabling Microsoft Store Access with the CLI
- 10. Benefits of Using the Store CLI
- 11. Real-World Use Cases
- 12. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- 13. The Future of Store App management
Redmond, Washington – Microsoft has announced the launch of Store CLI, a new command-line interface designed to streamline the management and installation of applications directly from the Microsoft Store.This development, revealed on February 11, 2026, provides a text-based option to the traditional graphical user interface for accessing Store apps, appealing especially to developers and advanced users. The new tool aims to enhance efficiency and control over the app ecosystem.
According to Giorgio Sardo, Vice President of the Microsoft Store, the Store CLI offers a “new way to discover and install Store apps, without needing the GUI.” This represents a significant shift towards empowering users with greater flexibility in how they interact with windows applications.
Key Capabilities Of Store CLI
The Store CLI introduces several core functionalities designed to simplify app management. Users can now leverage the command line to perform tasks that previously required navigating thru the Microsoft Store’s visual interface.
- App Browsing: The store browse-apps command allows users to search and filter the microsoft Store catalog based on various criteria, like category, release date, and region.
- Instant Installation: Utilizing store install, users can deploy applications directly from the command line with a single command, optimizing workflow.
- Targeted Updates: The store update function allows for the selective updating of specific applications, ensuring that only desired software receives the latest versions.
Store CLI Versus WinGet: A Comparative Look
While the Store CLI shares similarities with Microsoft’s WinGet package manager, a crucial distinction lies in their source of applications. Store CLI is exclusively designed for apps available within the Microsoft Store, while WinGet supports a broader range of applications, including those from external sources.
The table below highlights key differences between the two tools:
| feature | Store CLI | WinGet |
|---|---|---|
| App Source | Microsoft Store only | Microsoft Store & External Sources |
| Interface | Command Line | Command Line |
| Open Source | No | Yes |
Data from Statista indicates that the Microsoft Store accounted for approximately 48% of Windows request downloads in 2024, emphasizing the significance of enhanced Store functionality.
Getting Started With Store CLI
The Store CLI is now available for use, and users can access a comprehensive list of commands by typing “store –help” in their command-line interface. Though, it’s significant to note that the Store CLI only functions on systems where the Microsoft Store app is enabled.
The introduction of Store CLI reflects a broader industry trend towards embracing command-line tools for enhanced efficiency and control, especially within developer communities and among power users.
How can I use the Store CLI to install, update, or uninstall Microsoft Store apps?
Microsoft Introduces Store CLI: Manage Microsoft Store Apps from the Command Line
For years, managing Microsoft Store applications has been largely confined to the graphical user interface. While functional, this approach lacked the automation and scripting capabilities power users and system administrators often require. Now, microsoft has changed the game with the introduction of the Store CLI – a command-line interface for interacting with the Microsoft Store.This opens up a world of possibilities for streamlined app management, deployment, and automation.
What is the Store CLI?
The Store CLI, officially known as winget configure and related commands, is a tool that allows you to manage Microsoft Store apps directly from the command line. It’s built on top of the Windows Package Manager (winget) and extends its functionality to include operations previously onyl possible through the Store GUI. This means you can install, uninstall, update, and query information about Microsoft Store apps using simple text commands.
Core Functionality: Commands You Need to Know
The Store CLI isn’t a single executable; it’s a set of commands integrated into the existing winget tool. Here’s a breakdown of the most useful commands:
* winget configure: This is the primary command for managing Store access.It allows you to enable or disable access to the Microsoft Store.
* winget source update: Refreshes the list of available packages from all configured sources, including the Microsoft Store.Essential for ensuring you have the latest app information.
* winget install <package_name>: Installs an request from the Microsoft Store (or other configured sources). You can search for package names using winget search.
* winget upgrade: Upgrades all installed applications, including those from the Microsoft Store, to their latest versions.
* winget uninstall <package_name>: removes an application installed via the Microsoft Store.
* winget show <package_name>: Displays detailed information about a specific application, including its version, source, and ID.
Enabling Microsoft Store Access with the CLI
By default,winget doesn’t automatically have access to the Microsoft Store. You need to explicitly configure it. Here’s how:
- Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator.
- Run the command:
winget configure --msstore - This will prompt you to confirm enabling access to the Microsoft Store. Type ‘Y’ and press Enter.
Once configured,winget will include Microsoft Store apps in its search results and allow you to manage them using the commands listed above.
Benefits of Using the Store CLI
The advantages of managing Microsoft Store apps via the command line are numerous:
* Automation: Scripting installations, updates, and uninstalls for automated deployments. This is particularly valuable for system administrators managing multiple machines.
* Efficiency: Faster and more precise app management compared to navigating the GUI.
* Reproducibility: Create scripts to ensure consistent application configurations across diffrent systems.
* Remote Management: Manage apps on remote machines using scripting tools like PowerShell remoting.
* Integration with DevOps: Incorporate app management into CI/CD pipelines.
Real-World Use Cases
Several scenarios highlight the power of the Store CLI:
* large-Scale Deployments: A company deploying Windows 11 to hundreds of employees can use a script to automatically install essential Microsoft Store apps during the initial setup process.
* Standardized Workstations: IT departments can enforce a standard set of applications on all workstations by using scripts to install and update apps regularly.
* Software Testing: Developers can automate the installation and uninstallation of apps for testing purposes.
* Digital Kiosks: Maintain a consistent application surroundings on digital kiosks by automating app updates and preventing unauthorized installations.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While generally reliable, you might encounter a few issues when using the Store CLI:
* Access Denied: Ensure you are running Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator.
* Package Not Found: Double-check the package name using winget search. Package names are case-sensitive.
* store Access Not Enabled: Verify that you have enabled Microsoft Store access using winget configure --msstore.
* Connectivity Issues: Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
The Future of Store App management
The introduction of the Store CLI represents a notable step forward in the evolution of Microsoft Store app management. As winget continues to mature and gain new features, we can expect even more powerful and flexible ways to interact with the Microsoft Store from the command line. this will empower users and administrators alike to take greater control over their application environments. The integration with PowerShell and other scripting languages will further enhance its capabilities, making it an indispensable tool for modern IT professionals.