As the new Microsoft store gets further ready for production, we now have the much-awaited option to deploy UWP applications using the System Context via Intune. As UWP applications, by design, install in the user’s context, the app will be automatically installed for each user that logs in once it is deployed via the System context.

Among other use cases, an important one is the ability to use this to manage applications on multi-session PCs such as Azure Virtual Desktops.

Before we look at the steps to perform this, the limitations at release date need to be mentioned:

  1. The app must not already be installed for any users on the device.
    1. As a precursor to deployment, we may want to initiate an uninstall of the current app in the User context.
  2. If a user uninstalls the app, it will still be listed as Installed since it is still provisioned to the device.

While it may appear that this is not really much different than deploying the application to the user, the key difference is when and how the application gets installed. With the previous deployment method, a user had to log into the machine and would receive the application after a sync. Following the new process, the application will be installed whether a user is logged in or not, and all subsequent logins will have the application installed before the desktop becomes available.

For this example, we’ll look at deploying Adobe Photoshop Express as a UWP app to devices using the System Context.

Step 1: Open up a browser and navigate to https://intune.microsoft.com

Step 2: Click Apps -> Windows -> Add

Step 3: In the Select app type blade, choose Microsoft Store app (new) and click Select.

Step 4: On the Add App page, click the Search the Microsoft Store app (new) link and search for Adobe. Select Adobe Photoshop Express and click Select.

Step 5: On the App Information blade, change the Install behavior to System and click Next.

Step 6: Add a device group to the Required Group Assignments using the correct Add Group button, then click Next.

Step 7: Review the app information, the required group for deployment, and click Create.

That’s it, that’s all. Adobe Photoshop Express is available on all systems in the device group, and a fresh install will be created for every user that logs in, allowing separate configurations if desired. Hope this helps!