Integration of Steam and Epic Games Store into Microsoft Store: New Opportunities for Windows 11 Users

Microsoft continues to impress with its innovations, aiming to make Windows 11 even more user-friendly. Recent news about the possible integration of popular gaming platforms Steam and Epic Games Store (EGS) into the Microsoft Store has become a major topic of discussion among gamers and developers. At the Windows 11 presentation, significant attention was given not only to the operating system’s core features but also to the revamped Microsoft Store.

Support for Android Apps and New Opportunities

One of the major announcements was the support for Android apps without the need for emulation. Users will be able to install Android apps directly through the Microsoft Store, significantly expanding the platform’s capabilities. This is made possible through a partnership with Amazon, which provides a range of apps.

Plans for Integrating Steam and EGS

Panos Panay, Microsoft’s Chief Product Officer, shared the company’s ambitious plans to integrate Steam and Epic Games Store into the Microsoft Store. “We aim for users to be able to enter our store, type in the name of any app, and instantly get what they need,” Panay emphasized. However, he did not clarify at what stage the integration work is and whether it is being conducted at all.

It is possible that Microsoft is considering an integration similar to that of Android apps, where games and applications will be displayed in the Microsoft Store without direct hosting in the store. This would allow users to easily find and download games from Steam and EGS through a unified interface.

Windows 11 and Microsoft Store: New Rules and Opportunities

Windows 11 has already been hailed as the best choice for gamers, and the integration of popular gaming platforms will only strengthen this position. Starting July 28, 2021, Microsoft offers app developers 100% revenue retention when using their own or third-party payment systems. However, this rule does not apply to game developers, which has raised questions within the community, but Microsoft has not yet provided explanations.

The updated Microsoft Store, introduced on June 24, will be available on both Windows 11 and Windows 10 by the end of 2021. This update promises to enhance the user experience and provide access to a wider range of apps and games through a single store.

Thus, the integration of Steam and Epic Games Store into Microsoft Store could be an important step towards creating a more convenient and universal platform for gamers and Windows users. Microsoft is expected to continue sharing details about this project as it develops.