With Windows 8.1 being made available on October 18th, Microsoft is highlighting the “refreshed” Windows Store that comes with the operating system update. Microsoft goes over some of the new features that have been added to the Windows Store experience, along with confirming the Windows Store gift cards we have been hearing about.
“With the launch of Windows 8.1 on Oct. 18, consumers and developers will be able to interact with the new experience firsthand. Redesigned detail pages will give developers a more visually stunning platform upon which to highlight their apps with increased merchandising capabilities, while search and recommendation features will make it easier for customers to find the best apps and games,” Microsoft stated in an official blog post.
“..gift cards offer new revenue opportunities for Windows Store app builders.”
Microsoft confirmed that there will be Windows Store gift cards available over the next few months, just in time for the holiday season. While Microsoft has yet to disclose if we will see $10, $25, or $50 gift cards, like we have been hearing, the devices and services giant does promise “new revenue opportunities for Windows Store app builders” with the introduction of gift cards.
Microsoft has also added the Bing recommendation engine into the Windows Store, allowing users to see apps and games suggested to them based on previous selections, community favorites, and other criteria. The Windows Store app listing page has also been updated and refreshed to show more details about the app. Thanks to this, Microsoft promises “increased merchandising capabilities” for developers.
Microsoft has also promised a speedier certification process for app developers. “Beginning Oct. 18, the Windows Store team has committed to no more than five days for initial certification, with many apps passing within a day or two, for apps developers submit for Windows 8.1,” Microsoft explained.
Windows 8.1 will hit general availability on October 18th. Windows 8.1 will also roll out to current Windows 8 users as a free update on October 17th.
Further reading: Microsoft, Windows 8.1, Windows Store
