Opera and Yandex already available in the Microsoft Store

Sep 29, 2021 16:26 GMT  ·  By

The debut of Windows 11 is the perfect occasion for Microsoft to also introduce some pretty big updates for the Microsoft Store as well, including a new policy regarding browsers.

Beginning with this refresh, the Microsoft Store will allow third-party browsers with their very own engines, unlike other stores that require browsers to use the native engine available on the platform.

“In June, we updated our policies for browser apps, enabling developers to bring their own browser engines (instead of relying on the OS’ web platform) and continue to innovate with their user experience. Today we are welcoming two browsers, joining Microsoft Edge in the Microsoft Store on Windows: Opera and Yandex Browser,” Microsoft says.

Third-party app stores

In addition, Microsoft says it will also allow other app stores to be listed in the Microsoft Store, including the Amazon and the Epic Games Store.

The Amazon Appstore will be used by Microsoft to provide easy access to Android apps, which will run natively on Windows 11 when the new operating system launches.

“We’re announcing another significant update to our Microsoft Store on Windows policies, which will allow third-party storefront apps to be discoverable in the Microsoft Store on Windows. Just like any other app, third-party storefront apps will have a product detail page that can be found via search or by browsing – so that users can easily find and install it with the same confidence as any other app in the Microsoft Store on Windows. Today, we are sharing that Amazon and Epic Games will bring their storefront apps to the Microsoft Store over the next few months, and we look forward to welcoming other stores as well in the future,” Microsoft said.

Windows 11 will launch next week, so the new Microsoft Store changes will also come into effect in a few days.