If you are struggling to update your default Windows applications, such as Calendar, Calculator, Photos, Browser, and others, then you are at the right place. Here, we will discuss how to update apps on Windows 11. On Windows 11, there are two categories of apps: installed from Microsoft Store apps and third-party apps.
This guide will cover how to update both. By default, Windows 11 automatically updates apps in the background. If you do not receive the updates, you can manually update the apps. Here is how to check for and install app updates.
How to Update Apps on Windows 11
Windows updates automatically update the default Windows 11 apps, such as Calendar, Clock, Photos, Music, and other built-in applications, along with new features and security improvements.
However, third-party apps, like VLC, Netflix, and Spotify, do not receive updates through this method, specifically the applications installed from the Microsoft Store.
To manually update Microsoft Store apps, follow these steps:
1. Search for the Microsoft Store on the search bar and open it. Alternatively, on your Windows 11 PC, click the Microsoft Store icon to access the storefront from the taskbar.
2. Click on the Downloads option at the bottom left. Here, you will find a list of apps installed on your Windows 11 through the Microsoft Store.
3. Click on the Get Updates button to check for all available updates.
4. If application updates are available, simply click on the Update All button to begin the update process and wait for it to complete.
5. After that, close the Microsoft Store and restart your system.
How to Enable Automatic App Updates in the Microsoft Store
If you want to avoid the hassle, you can enable automatic updates to keep your apps up to date by default. To do so, follow these steps:
1. Click on your profile image at the top of the Microsoft Store.
2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.
3. In the settings, turn on the App Updates toggle.
Note
This will not automatically update the system components; you can update them from the Windows Update page.
How to Update Non-Microsoft Store Apps
There is a lot of software available outside the Microsoft Store, such as all the programs you download through your web browser. These apps are not listed in the Microsoft Store and are maintained separately, which means updating them is a bit different.
Most apps include an option to Check for Updates, which you can use to update the app. Alternatively, you can manually download the latest version of the app from the official website and install it as you did the first time you put it on your computer.
Conclusion
Updating Windows apps on Windows 11 will ensure you have the latest features and security improvements. If not, you will always get the fresh version of all your apps, enhancing your overall performance.
However, if you want to remove or uninstall unwanted apps from your Windows 11 device, you can check our guide on uninstalling programs on Windows 11.
