Older Windows 10 Versions (1709 and 1803) Get MSIX Format Support

What Is MSIX

Before introducing the MSIX packaging support, you may want to know what MSIX format is.

MSIX refers to Microsoft’s new packaging format for applications, providing a modern packaging experience to all Windows apps. The MSIX enables new, modern packaging and deployment features to Windows32, WPF and WinForm apps. Additionally, it keeps the functionality of existing app packages and installing files.

Starting with the release of Windows 10 V1809 which had been officially released back in November, the MSIX package is deemed to be the complete replacement of the older AppX format by Microsoft.

MSIX Support for Windows 10 1709 and 1803

Reportedly, some older Windows 10 versions have got MSIX format support, such as Windows 10 version 1709 and version 1803. But, there are some limitations of the Windows 10 MSIX support.

Limitations of MSIX Support

John Vintzel, program manager lead for MSIX explained in Microsoft’s Monday announcement, the new support allows using tools like Microsoft Intune, PowerShell or System Center Configuration Manager to distribute MSIX packages withing enterprises, double-click file deployments or install directly from the APIs.

However, they cannot distribute packages from the Microsoft Store to Microsoft Store for Business since doing that will still require the systems like Windows 10 1809 or later.

In this Microsoft document, some other limitations on the use of MSIX support for Windows 10 1709 and 1803 are also introduced. These limitations seem disruptive to some developers, IT professionals, and even end users.

The following are the limitations of Windows 10 version 1803 and 1709 regarding MSIX use:

1. No support for  “MSIXbundles,” an application package type
2. No support for using the MSIX Packaging Tool or Visual Studio
3. Users must run the MSIX files as administrators
4. Users have to manually verify the app signatures

Update on February 12

On February 12, John Vintzel explained that these items were not really the deal breakers via an email. He said that they had very little influence on IT professionals.

As to users having to manually verify the app signatures, he explained that users wouldn’t do this item really. If signature issues happened on the package, usually it was a troubleshooting item.

Besides, for the statement that users must run the MSIX files as administrators, Vintzel clarified that it’s only for apps that wanted to auto-elevate and most of the apps didn’t have a need of the functionality. If apps require it, right-click launching was necessary.

Now, Microsoft is correcting the documents to ensure users have a clearer understanding of these recorded issues.

On Monday, Microsoft also announced that it has released a new version of the MSIX Packaging Tool, version 1.2019.110.0. However, this also requires Windows 10 version 1809 or later systems. The tool is available in Microsoft Store and can be used to repackage older Win32 (Windows 7-type) apps in the MSIX format.

Besides, Microsoft is to launch a new Insider Programs for users to test future preview releases of the MSIX Packaging Tool. To join the new Insider Program, users can use the sign-up link which is located at the bottom of MSIX Packaging Tool Overview page.