Apple released a more complete feature earlier.Web version of the App StoreThis allows users of non-Apple devices, such as Android or Windows, to view content including Today, rankings, and app descriptions through a web browser, and also to search for specific apps using the search function.
This feature marks the first time in 17 years since Apple launched the App Store in 2008 that a more complete app marketplace experience has been brought to the web. Previously, while users could browse app introduction pages through the web, they could not browse Today content or use the search function to find other apps.
Import full browsing and searching, no longer limited to a single app introduction page.
After the redesign, users can now enjoy a nearly identical experience to the native App Store through any browser. The new web interface is also a highly faithful reproduction of the design on iPhone and iPad, including the iconic "Today" tab, official editorial recommendations, various app rankings, and the Apple Arcade gaming section.
The new website also features a built-in native search function, allowing users to directly search for and discover more apps, which is more conducive to promoting apps listed on the App Store.
The new web version of the App Store not only supports English and other languages, but also supports Taiwan.Traditional Chinese interfaceFurthermore, the content displayed in the "Today" tab and official editorial recommendations differs depending on the region of the web version of the App Store.
Breaking down the walled garden makes it easier for potential users to assess their options before switching jobs.
The most significant aspect of this update is that it breaks Apple's long-standing "walled garden" restrictions, making it easier for users considering switching from Android to iPhone or from Windows PC to Mac to check whether their frequently used apps are also available on iOS, macOS, and other platforms before actually purchasing the device, through the web version of the App Store.
Similarly, the iPad's vast ecosystem of tablet-specific software is one of its core advantages, but potential buyers may not readily perceive it. The launch of the new web-based App Store will also provide a suitable platform for evaluation.
The new web version of the App Store also supports cross-platform content filtering. Users can easily switch between browsing iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and even Vision Pro via the top drop-down menu, making it easier for users to view the lineup of apps available on the App Store through a web browser.
The crucial "remote installation" function is still missing.
However, the new web-based App Store still lacks the option to install apps directly, offering only a sharing function. This means that users still essentially have to operate on an Apple device to download and install apps, unlike Google's Google Play Store which offers the option to download and install apps on a specific device (the device must be logged into a personal Google account beforehand). Therefore, it is still somewhat inconvenient in actual use.
On the other hand, the fact that the web version of the App Store was only updated after many years has led many to believe that Apple has, to some extent, "trapped itself" with its closed policy, inadvertently limiting the possibility of new potential users joining the platform.
