This change aimed to unify the naming convention for all types of applications. Microsoft began using the term 'Apps' to refer to both UWP apps and desktop apps indiscriminately.
With the release of Windows 10 version 1903, there was a shift in the terminology.
Initially, these apps were called 'Trusted Windows Store apps,' and later they were referred to as 'Trusted Microsoft Store apps.' On the other hand, traditional programs designed to run on desktop computers were referred to as ' desktop apps.' These were applications that could be installed from the Microsoft Store, which was previously known as the Windows Store. Starting with Windows 10, Microsoft initially used the term 'Windows app' to describe Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps. They are primarily purchased and downloaded via the Microsoft Store, Microsoft's digital storefront. Universal Windows Platform ( UWP) apps (formerly Windows Store apps, Metro-style apps and Modern apps) are applications that can be used across all compatible Microsoft Windows devices. Right: Metro-style app entirely composed of contents Applications usable across all compatible Microsoft Windows devices Khan Academy, an example of a Universal Windows App Left: A traditional desktop app without contents it is showing 60 graphical widgets, and a thick border.
