If you’re having trouble with the Microsoft Store, or it’s completely missing from your system, you might be wondering how to install the Xbox app on Windows 10 or 11. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to install the Xbox app without using the Microsoft Store. This guide will walk you through the steps for each method, so you can get back to gaming without the usual hurdles.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Methods Available: You can install the Xbox app without the Microsoft Store using the Xbox App for Windows Installer, UniGetUI or an online link generator.
- Safe and Reliable: Each method allow you to download and install the Xbox app safely on your Windows PC.
- Microsoft Store Reinstallation: Once installed, the Xbox app can help you reinstall and repair the Microsoft Store if needed.
Why Install the Xbox App Without the Microsoft Store?
Sometimes the Microsoft Store might be broken, or it may be missing from your computer altogether. This can happen due to system errors, corrupted files, or accidental removal. Installing the Xbox app without the Microsoft Store can also allow you to reinstall the store itself, which is essential for many apps and games on Windows.
You can install any of the free Microsoft Store apps without using the Microsoft Store, for more info check out my guide on How to Install Microsoft Store Apps Without the Microsoft Store.
Method 1: Using the Xbox App for Windows Installer
You don’t need the Microsoft Store to install the Xbox App on your Windows PC—it’s available directly from the Xbox website. For video instructions, check out the video below or visit my guide on How To Reinstall and Fix The Microsoft Store in Windows 10/11.
Steps to Install the Xbox App Using the Windows Installer
1. Download the Xbox App
The first step to reinstalling Microsoft Store is downloading the Xbox App. Here’s how:
- Navigate to the Xbox App for Window downloads page.
- Scroll down the page until you see the button labeled “Download the App.” Click on it to download the Xbox installer.
2. Install the Xbox App
After downloading the installer:
- Open the downloaded file (XboxInstaller.exe).
- Agree to Microsoft’s terms and click “Install.”
- Once the installation is complete, click “Let’s Go” to open the Xbox App.
3. Sign In to Your Microsoft Account
Now that the Xbox App is installed, you need to sign in:
- Choose “Sign In” when prompted by the Xbox App.
- Sign in with your Microsoft account credentials.
- If this is your first time using the Xbox App, you’ll need to create a gamer tag. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete your account setup.
With the Xbox App now set up and linked to your Microsoft account, you’re all set to explore the game catalog, manage your Xbox services, and enjoy gaming on your Windows PC.
Method 2: Using UniGetUI to Install the Xbox App
The first method involves using UniGetUI, a graphical interface for various package managers like Winget, Scoop, and Chocolatey, that lets you install apps without the need for the Microsoft Store.
Note: WinGetUI was renamed to UniGetUI by the developer, but it’s still the same application.
Steps to Install the Xbox App Without the Microsoft Store Using UniGetUI
Step 1: Download and Install UniGetUI
- Open your web browser and go to the UniGetUI download page.
- Click “Download UniGetUI” and follow the prompts to install the software on your PC.
Step 2: Search for the Xbox App in UniGetUI
- Launch UniGetUI and ensure “Discover Packages” is selected at the top.
- Type “Xbox” in the search bar.
- Scroll through the results until you find the app that just says “Xbox” with the source listed as “MS Store.”
- If you can’t find Xbox in UniGetUI by searching for it, you can click here to be redirected to the Xbox page on the UniGetUI website.
Step 3: Install the Xbox App Using UniGetUI
- Select the Xbox app from the list.
- Click “Install Selected Packages” at the top of the screen.
- Monitor the installation progress at the bottom of the window.
Step 4: Launch the Installed Xbox App
- Once the installation is complete, search for “Xbox” on your computer and launch the app.
Method 3: Using an Online Link Generator for the Xbox App
If you prefer not to use third-party applications, you can also install the Xbox app by generating a direct download link using an online link generator.
Steps to Install the Xbox App Without the Microsoft Store Using an Online Link Generator
Step 1: Get the Xbox App URL from the Microsoft Store
- Visit the Xbox app’s official page on the Microsoft Store.
- Copy the URL of the Xbox app.
Step 2: Use an Online Link Generator
- Navigate to the Online link generator for Microsoft Store web page.
- Make sure the selection box is set to “URL (link)” mode.
- Paste the Xbox app URL you copied into the generator and click the checkmark to generate download links.
Step 3: Download the Xbox App MSI X Bundle File
- Once the links are generated, search for the “Microsoft Gaming App” or “Xbox App” in the list of files.
- Ensure you’re downloading the correct file by looking for the MSI X bundle file. This file is typically larger in size, around a few hundred megabytes, compared to other small files.
- Click on the correct file to start the download.
Step 4: Handle Browser Security Warnings
- During the download, you might see a warning saying the file “can’t be downloaded securely.”
- Click “More Options,” then choose “Keep,” and confirm by selecting “Keep Anyway.” Rest assured, downloading this file from a trusted source is safe.
Step 5: Install the Xbox App
- Once the download is complete, open the MSI X bundle file.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to install the Xbox app on your system.
- After installation, the Xbox app will launch automatically.
Step 6: Sign In and Configure the Xbox App
- Open the Xbox app, sign in with your Microsoft account, and browse the game catalog or manage your Xbox services.
Step 7: Reinstall Microsoft Store (If Needed)
- If your Microsoft Store is missing, you can reinstall it through the Xbox app.
- Click on your profile icon in the Xbox app, go to Settings, and under the General tab, you’ll see an option to install the Microsoft Store. Follow the prompts to reinstall it on your system.
Common Issues and Solutions
What If the MSI X Bundle Doesn’t Download?
If you can’t download the MSI X bundle file, double-check the URL in the generator. Sometimes a typo or extra characters can cause issues.
What to Do If the Xbox App Fails to Install?
If the installation fails, ensure that you have enough storage space and that your system is up-to-date with Windows updates.
Can You Install the Xbox App on Windows 10 & Windows 11?
Yes, these methods works for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.
Conclusion
By following these methods, you can easily install the Xbox app without using the Microsoft Store on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Whether you use UniGetUI or an online link generator, these steps provide a reliable workaround if the Microsoft Store is broken or missing from your system. Once installed, the Xbox app can even help you reinstall the Microsoft Store if needed.
FAQs
Can I reinstall the Microsoft Store using the Xbox app?
Yes, after installing the Xbox app, you can reinstall the Microsoft Store through the app’s settings.
Is it safe to download the .msixbundle file?
Yes, as long as you use a trusted link generator like the one mentioned in this guide.
What if the Microsoft Store isn’t listed in the Xbox app settings?
Try restarting your system and reopening the app. If it still doesn’t appear, check for any pending Windows updates.
Do I need a Microsoft account to use the Xbox app?
Yes, you’ll need a Microsoft account to sign in and use the Xbox app.
Will this method work for future versions of Windows?
It should work as long as Microsoft continues to provide the Xbox app via the Microsoft Store. However, always check for the latest updates or changes from Microsoft.
