Microsoft Edge Makes it Easier to Access Installed PWAs

Microsoft has detailed today new Edge features that make it easier for users to access the Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) they have installed via the web browser. Microsoft Edge version 101 recently introduced a new Apps hub that can be pinned to the Edge toolbar, as well as a redesigned Apps page.

The new Apps hub appears to be still rolling out as of this writing, but it works as pop-up window that displays installed PWAs as well as a button at the top for installing the current site as an app. You can also right-click any PWA in the hub to pin it to the Start Menu or taskbar or access its settings on the new Apps page.

The re-designed Apps page, which is also accessible from edge://apps, also lets Edge users pin apps to the taskbar bar or Start Menu. By clicking on the Details button, users can also review cookies and permissions for their installed PWAs, set up auto-start on device login, or uninstall PWAs with just a couple of clicks.

Microsoft has also started testing Apps sync in the Edge Beta channel, which will synchronize synced apps across devices. “The synced apps don’t auto-install for you since you might not necessarily want all of them on all devices, but you can install them with one click,” the Edge team emphasized.

Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and other browsers now make it pretty easy to install any websites as “apps” so that they can be opened in their own window without the browser UI. You may find that more or less useful depending on your definition of what an “app” is, but PWAs should remain an important focus for the Edge team in the future.