How to Check for App Updates Using Windows Update in Windows 11

What’s New?

Windows 11 now has a new way to handle app updates, making things smoother and less disruptive.

In Windows 11, you can now see all your app updates in one place. Navigate to Settings > Apps > App Updates to find them.

How Does This Work?

Windows 11 app updates allow your apps to inform the system when a new version is available. Your computer then finds and installs these app updates automatically in the background, usually when you’re not actively using it. This process keeps your apps current without requiring significant user action.

1. Apps ask the system for updates.
2. The system checks for updates and installs them when you’re not using your computer.
3. Apps still get their updates from their regular sources.
4. Apps tell the system how the updates are going. You can see this in Settings.

Who Can Use This?

The new Windows 11 app updates feature is rolling out slowly, so not everyone can use it yet. If you’re in the Windows Insider program (specifically on the Dev or Beta channels), you might already see it. Some technically-minded users who have used specific tools might also have access.

If you’re part of the Windows Insider program (specifically on the Dev or Beta channels), you might see this feature already.

For those who like to explore ahead of the curve, technically-minded users can enable this feature early with a tool called ViVeTool.

How to Check for App Updates in 🪟 Windows 11

1. ⚙️ Open Settings. Press Win + I on your keyboard to open it fast.
2. In the left menu, click Apps.
3. On the right side, click App updates.

To check for Windows 11 app updates, you need to open the Settings app. Press the Windows key and ‘I’ together on your keyboard to open Settings quickly. Then, click on ‘Apps’ in the left-hand menu, and on the right side, click ‘App updates’ to see what’s available.

4. Click the 🔃 Check for updates button to see if your apps need updates.

If there are updates, Windows will download and install them for you.

Summary

Checking for Windows 11 app updates is now much simpler because all your app updates are in one spot inside the Settings app. This new system makes keeping your apps current and is expected to support more apps soon. You can find these updates under Settings > Apps > App Updates.

• Simpler Updates: Windows is making app updates smoother and easier.
• One Place to Check: You can find app updates in Settings > Apps > App Updates.
• Better Communication: Apps talk to Windows to tell you about updates.
• More Apps Soon: More apps will use this feature over time.
• Early Access: Advanced users can try new update features early with special tools.