Microsoft has introduced a major update to Windows 11 that makes managing pre-installed apps much easier for IT administrators. With this latest enhancement, organizations can now remove default Microsoft Store apps more flexibly using a dynamic and policy-driven approach. This move is especially useful for enterprises looking to streamline devices, improve performance, and strengthen security by removing unnecessary applications.
The updated policy, called RemoveDefaultMicrosoftStorePackages, allows administrators to uninstall pre-installed Microsoft Store apps using a dynamic list. Instead of relying on a fixed set of removable apps, IT teams can now target virtually any pre-installed MSIX or APPX application by using its Package Family Name (PFN).
This policy can be configured through Group Policy Object (GPO) or a custom OMA-URI for mobile device management (MDM) solutions. In simple terms, admins get more control over what stays and what goes on enterprise devices.
Microsoft announced that this update will help organizations “simplify Microsoft Store app management” and extend control across a wide range of enterprise environments.
Pre-installed apps in Windows 11 often include tools that may not be relevant for all organizations. These apps can consume system resources, increase attack surfaces, or simply clutter the user experience.
With this new feature, businesses can:
- Remove unnecessary apps to improve system performance
- Reduce potential security risks by minimizing unused software
- Customize devices according to organizational needs
- Maintain a cleaner and more consistent user environment
For SEO-focused organizations or IT-driven companies, this also supports better system optimization and productivity.
To use this updated functionality, devices must meet specific requirements:
- Install at least the April 2026 Windows non-security update
- For early access, Windows Insider users can enable it using builds released on March 13, 2026, in the Dev and Beta channels
Additionally, Microsoft has expanded support for this policy to include Windows 11 version 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions. Previously, it was only available on version 25H2 or later, making this update more accessible to organizations that have not upgraded to the latest OS version.
Microsoft has kept the process straightforward. Here’s how IT admins can remove apps using Group Policy:
- Find the Package Family Name (PFN):
Open PowerShell and run the following command (replace “Notepad” with the target app):Get-AppxPackage *Notepad* | Select-Object PackageFamilyName - Open Group Policy Editor:
Launchgpedit.mscand navigate to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment - Enable the Policy:
Select Remove default Microsoft Store packages from the system - Add PFNs:
Enter the Package Family Names in the multi-text field under “Specify additional package family names to remove.” Add one PFN per line.
This method allows administrators to deploy changes across multiple devices efficiently, especially in Active Directory environments.
While the policy is currently not fully integrated with Microsoft Intune’s dynamic list feature, Microsoft has confirmed that support is on the way. Once available, admins will be able to locate the setting by searching for “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages” in the Intune settings catalog.
This upcoming integration will further enhance cloud-based device management, especially for organizations using hybrid or fully remote setups.
In a related development, Microsoft has also introduced the ability to uninstall its AI-powered assistant, Copilot, from enterprise devices. Using the RemoveMicrosoftCopilotApp policy, admins can remove the application after installing the April 2026 Patch Tuesday cumulative updates.
This is a notable addition, as many organizations are still evaluating the role of AI tools in their workflows and may prefer to disable them until policies and governance frameworks are fully established.
Microsoft’s latest update to Windows 11 reflects a growing focus on enterprise flexibility and control. By enabling dynamic removal of pre-installed Microsoft Store apps, the company is addressing a long-standing need among IT administrators.
For businesses aiming to optimize their systems, enhance security, and maintain a clean digital environment, this feature is a significant step forward. As further integration with tools like Intune becomes available, managing Windows devices at scale will become even more efficient.
This update not only improves usability but also aligns with modern IT practices where customization, security, and performance are top priorities.
Interesting Article : Google Patches Gemini CLI Bug That Risked CI/CD Supply Chain Attacks