Windows App Store Nears 100,000 Apps

The Microsoft Windows App Store has nearly reached the 100,000 apps milestone. The number of apps currently being offered was revealed during the Build 2012 develop conference. Microsoft also took time to unveil its Windows 8.1 public preview update and to talk about the future addition of Metro-style Office apps.

Microsoft officials says the Windows App Store will likely pass the 100,000 apps milestone sometime before the end of the month. Developers at the tech giant also believe the Windows Store will experience massive growth and reach the 175,000 apps milestone by the end of January.

While the company didn’t reveal exactly number it did tell Engadget that “hundred of millions” of app downloads have already occurred.

Microsoft has not revealed exact numbers for its download totals, but, with more high-end platforms moving to the Windows Store, it’s likely those numbers will rapidly increase.

While Microsoft hosts some popular platforms including Twitter and Skype, the company is excited for the future. Apps set to arrive soon on the Windows App store include Flipboard, Facebook, and NFL Fantasy Football.

Here is a short 8-second clip that shows off Flipboard for Windows 8:

In the meantime, Microsoft Windows 8.1 is working towards an Office transition. The new Metro-style Office setup will feature a new flat design, stronger PowerPoint capabilities, and upgrades for Word and Excel. Microsoft is hoping to release the Metro-styled Office platform by October 2013.

Windows 8.1 is expected to join Office in releasing sometime in October 2013.

Earlier today I reported on the new upgrades offered inside the free Windows 8.1 public preview upgrade. With a return of the start button, better tile options, a better search feature, and various other upgrades on the way it looks like Microsoft might finally be getting a hang of the new digital platform revolution.

Do you currently download apps from the Windows App store? Will you be upgrading to Microsoft Windows 8.1?