The company launched the MSIX Packaging Tool in July. MSIX is a new format that allows current Win32 application to run in a container on devices with Windows 10 17682 or higher. It replaces some of Microsoft’s former tools, such as App-V and even the Desktop App Converter. However, there are a several requirements, which include:
Participation in Windows Insider fast or slow rings Minimum Windows 10 Build 17701 or later Administrator privileges on your PC account A valid MSA alias (to access the app from the Store)
MSIX serves as a more efficient method for packaging Win32 applications. By using the new service, developers can ensure a more secure platform. Microsoft says among the benefits of the tool is bandwidth and space saving by only downloading what is needed when installing an app. There’s also good news for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users as MSIX support is coming to those legacy platforms.
Features
MSIX is also getting forced updates, which gives developers the ability to tell users to an update and app before it is launched. Microsoft also pointed to some features that are coming to the tool in the future. For example, the company is promising flexible containers and the growth of the Package Support Framework Library. Additionally, dev’s should get a deeper integration between MSIX and System Center ConfigMgr and Intune.
