Apple Redesigns App Store for the Web

Apple has given its App Store a fresh web redesign, finally making it easy to browse apps without an Apple device.

Earlier, users could only view individual app pages through search results. They couldn’t explore categories or platforms directly on the web. On a Mac, opening a web link to an app page redirected users to the native App Store app. On non-Apple devices, however, it often led to a dead end.

Now, with the new interface, the company allows users to explore apps more freely on any browser.

Easier Browsing by Category and Platform

The updated App Store web interface introduces a clear layout for app discovery. Users can now browse apps by category or by device type.

There are separate sections for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and even Apple TV apps. Each section includes recommendations, featured titles, and easy-to-use filters.

Although you still can’t download apps directly from the web, this redesign makes the browsing experience more convenient and user-friendly. The company could eventually add download options in the future.

More Accessibility

This change also makes Apple’s ecosystem more accessible to users on non-Apple devices. For instance, someone using a Windows laptop or Android tablet can now explore iOS apps online.

While the number of users doing this may be small, it could benefit app developers, researchers, or anyone comparing platforms. It also helps the company's reputation as a brand working to open up its ecosystem — an important shift given ongoing regulatory pressures around the world.

Reflecting Apple’s Push Toward Openness

For years, the company has faced scrutiny from regulators accusing it of monopolistic practices. Governments in the US, EU, and other regions have urged Apple to allow fairer competition and more openness.

This web redesign aligns with those efforts. By improving access and transparency, Apple signals it’s ready to make small but meaningful changes to how users and developers engage with its ecosystem.

What This Means for Users

The redesigned App Store web interface offers a cleaner, more intuitive experience. It also reflects Apple’s ongoing work to improve usability and align with global expectations for openness.

For users, it’s simply easier to discover apps online — from anywhere, on any device.