How to Enable or Disable Microsoft Store Desktop Shortcuts
Microsoft Store desktop shortcuts are the app icons that automatically appear on your screen when you download an app or game. Windows 11 version 22H2 and later includes a built-in switch to stop these extra icons from showing up.
Turning off this feature keeps your desktop clean and stops clutter from building up every time you install something new. You can change this setting in the Microsoft Store app in just a few clicks whenever you want to tidy up your screen.
Open the Microsoft Store, click your Profile picture, select Settings, and toggle the Desktop shortcuts option on or off. This allows you to control automatic shortcut creation for Store apps.
What is the Microsoft Store?
The Microsoft Store is already on your Windows computer. Think of it like an app shop. You can find and install games and programs safely in one place.
How to Turn Desktop Shortcuts On or Off
Microsoft Store shortcuts for new apps can be turned on or off by changing a single setting inside the Microsoft Store app. This lets you stop new downloads from cluttering your desktop, or make sure every new app automatically gets a shortcut. Open the Microsoft Store app by clicking its icon on your taskbar or searching for it in the Start menu to get started.
- Open the Microsoft Store app. Click the Microsoft Store icon on your taskbar . Or search for “Microsoft Store” in the Start menu . Need help opening the Microsoft Store? Click here.
- Click your Profile picture. It’s at the top right corner near the search bar.
Microsoft Store Profile and Settings menu - Click on Settings. A menu will appear with options.
- Look for the Desktop shortcuts option. You’ll see a toggle switch next to it.
- Toggle the switch On if you want shortcuts to appear automatically. Toggle it Off if you don’t want them.
Toggle Desktop Shortcuts option in Microsoft Store settings
That’s it! Now you control whether new apps create shortcuts on your desktop.
Why is this useful?
- You can keep your desktop clean and tidy by turning shortcuts off.
- If you like quick access to apps, turning shortcuts on saves you time.
- This option puts you in control of how your computer looks and works.
Microsoft Store shortcuts management helps you keep your computer organized by stopping new apps from cluttering your screen with unnecessary icons. Turning them off keeps your desktop clean and tidy, while leaving them on gives you instant access to your favorite programs right from your main screen without needing to open the Start menu every time.
Summary
You can easily enable or disable automatic desktop shortcuts for Microsoft Store apps in Windows 11 by opening the Store, going to Profile settings, and toggling the option.
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Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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