Microsoft has released KB5046714, a critical update addressing persistent Microsoft Store update failures in Windows 10. This patch resolves compatibility issues between the Store and the Windows App SDK (WinAppSDK) that have plagued users since the September 2024 Patch Tuesday updates.

The Microsoft Store Update Problem

For weeks, Windows 10 users reported recurring errors when attempting to update apps through the Microsoft Store. Common symptoms included:

  • Error code 0x80073D02 during app installations
  • Infinite "Download pending" status
  • Store crashes when checking for updates
  • Failed dependency installations for WinAppSDK-based apps

Microsoft's investigation traced the issue to version conflicts between the Store infrastructure and the Windows App SDK runtime components. The problem particularly affected:

  1. Enterprise devices with delayed update policies
  2. Systems with custom app deployment configurations
  3. Devices running older versions of the Microsoft Store

KB5046714 Fix Details

The cumulative update KB5046714 (OS Build 19045.4894) includes several critical fixes:

Core Improvements

  • Resolved WinAppSDK version checking logic in Store client
  • Fixed dependency chain validation for framework packages
  • Improved update transaction reliability

Additional Fixes

  • Addressed a memory leak in Store background services
  • Patched a security vulnerability in the package installation subsystem
  • Improved error messaging for failed updates

Installation Instructions

To apply this critical fix:

  1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
  2. Select Check for updates
  3. Allow KB5046714 to download and install
  4. Restart your computer when prompted

For enterprise administrators:

  • The update is available through WSUS and Microsoft Catalog
  • Deployment rings should prioritize devices with Store-related helpdesk tickets
  • Verify successful installation with Get-Hotfix -Id KB5046714 in PowerShell

Verification and Troubleshooting

After installing the update:

  1. Open Microsoft Store and check for updates
  2. Verify version 22311.xxxx.x or later in Store Settings
  3. Test updating a WinAppSDK-dependent app like PowerToys

If issues persist:

Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers *WindowsStore* | Reset-AppxPackage

Long-Term Implications

This fix represents Microsoft's ongoing commitment to Windows 10 support through its October 2025 end-of-service date. The update:

  • Maintains compatibility with modern app frameworks
  • Ensures security compliance for Store-delivered apps
  • Prepares systems for eventual Windows 11 transition

Enterprise administrators should note this update is prerequisite for several upcoming security patches targeting Store-distributed business applications.

User Reports

Early adopters report:

  • 92% success rate for previously failing updates (Microsoft forums)
  • 40% reduction in Store-related support tickets (IT admin surveys)
  • Improved update speeds for large apps like Microsoft 365

Looking Ahead

Microsoft has confirmed similar fixes will be backported to Windows 10 version 21H2 in the next cumulative update cycle. The Windows App SDK team is also working on improved version compatibility safeguards to prevent recurrence.