Microsoft Launches Microsoft Store CLI for Windows, Upgrades Developer Analytics

Microsoft has introduced a new Microsoft Store command-line interface (CLI) for Windows, allowing users to browse, install, and update apps directly from the terminal, while also rolling out major developer dashboard upgrades.

The announcement comes shortly after the company issued a Secure Boot expiration warning and confirmed additional changes across its ecosystem.

Microsoft Store gets a command-line interface

In its latest blog post, Microsoft revealed a new CLI for the Microsoft Store aimed at developers and power users who prefer terminal-based workflows. The new tool allows users to manage Store apps without opening the graphical interface.

With the new commands, users can search and filter apps using “store browse-apps,” including options for category, subcategory, listing type, market, and language. The “store install” command enables direct installation of Microsoft Store apps from the terminal, while “store update” allows updating specific apps without launching the Store app itself. Users can also run “store –help” to see all supported commands and options.

The Microsoft Store CLI works only on Windows devices where the Store is already enabled. The move brings the Store experience closer to modern developer workflows and aligns it with other Windows command-line tools.

Partner Center analytics receive a major upgrade

Microsoft also announced significant improvements to developer analytics inside Partner Center. Health Reports now provide multi-filter insights across app versions, device architectures, and Windows OS builds, allowing developers to pinpoint stability issues more precisely.

A new Anomaly Alerts system notifies developers when unusual spikes in crashes or hangs occur. Alerts appear in the dashboard and are also sent via email. The updated Summary Dashboard now consolidates installs, ratings, stability, and engagement metrics into one unified view.

The redesigned Usage Dashboard adds new data points such as active devices, session counts, and engagement duration. Developers can also filter usage reports by region and app version, making it easier to analyze global performance trends.

Web Installer and Store tools improved

Microsoft improved the Microsoft Store Web Installer as well. Win32 apps can now automatically open after installation, reducing friction for users. Enterprise-managed devices also benefit from enhanced installation logic, which is designed to improve deployment success rates in managed environments.

The company also refreshed its Store Badge creator, making it easier for developers to generate official Microsoft Store badges for websites and promotional materials.

These Store updates arrive alongside other notable developments. Microsoft recently confirmed the shutdown of Exchange Web Services for Exchange Online in 2027 and issued a Secure Boot expiration warning ahead of upcoming certificate changes.

As demand for AI infrastructure continues to grow, reports suggest Microsoft may also turn to HTS technology to support expanding data center workloads.

With these updates, Microsoft continues refining its developer ecosystem while expanding command-line control and modernizing its app distribution tools.