Microsoft Store -- Developer Account and Turn Around

Question

Hi,

I developed a simple test app to learn about the Microsoft store and the campaign APIs. My question isn't about the APIs. My question is about how to rapidly publish updates to apps so that I can test my ideas

I would like to add features to my app, which I do not want to be generally available. I want the app to only be available to myself or others with whom I share the link. The app is bundled as an MSI and is a Win32 app. I want to publish it, make changes and then publish the update. I am looking for a mechanism that doesn't involve a two-day turn around.

How can I accomplish these objectives?

Carey

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A!

How can I accomplish these objectives?

First of all, the package flight function should be the answer for your question. You can use package flights to distribute specific packages to a limited group of testers. With package flights, only the packages are different; the Store listing details will be the same for all of your customers. Anyone in your flight group will receive the packages that you include in the package flight, while customers who aren't in the flight group continue to receive your regular (non-flighted) packages. So you could test your new feature within a small range.

But the package flights function is only available for normal MSIX package submissions, not win32 apps. I've confirmed this with team. So if you want to use the package flights function, you have to publish your win32 application as MSIX.

What you need to do is package your existing win32 application using the MSIX package tool. Then create MSIX app submission in the store.

Thank you.

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