The App Can’t Update When It’s Open – Microsoft Store App Error

Sometimes, Microsoft Store apps don’t update because the app is still open or running in the background. This stops Windows from installing the latest version, causing errors or update failures. To fix this, you need to close the app completely before trying to update it again. In this blog, you’ll learn easy and effective ways to solve the “App can’t update when it’s open” error in Microsoft Store, so your apps always stay updated smoothly.

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✔️ Solution 1: Close the App Completely

1. Close the app window normally.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
3. Look for the app under Processes.
4. Right-click the app → End Task.

Now try updating the app again from the Microsoft Store.

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✔️ Solution 2: Restart the Microsoft Store

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type: wsreset -i
3. Press Enter

This will reset the Microsoft Store, and then reopen it automatically.

Try updating the app again.

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✔️ Solution 3: Run Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other Troubleshooters
3. Scroll down and find Windows Store Apps
4. Click Run

Windows will scan and fix the problem automatically.

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✔️ Solution 4: Install All Pending Windows Updates

Sometimes system components required for app updates are outdated.

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update
2. Click Check for Updates
3. Install any available updates.
4. Restart your PC and try again.

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✔️ Solution 5: Reinstall the Problematic App (Last Option)

If none of the above helps:

1. Open Microsoft Store
2. Search for the app
3. Click Uninstall
4. Then click Install again

This will download a fresh, updated version of the app.

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Conclusion

The “The app can’t update when it’s open” error mainly happens when the app is still running. Simply closing the app and clearing Store cache fixes it for most users. If the issue continues, running the Troubleshooter or reinstalling the app will surely solve the problem.