Microsoft introduced UWP (Universal Windows Platform) apps in Windows OS based on UWA (Universal Windows Apps) to access across all compatible Microsoft Windows devices like PC, tablets, smartphones, Xbox, HoloLens, and IoT. In this post, we will show you how to create a Desktop shortcut for UWP system apps in Windows 11/10.

In Windows 11/10 there are few UWP apps that are installed by default. These apps are called UWP System Apps, which are integral to the operating system. Listed below are some of the typical system apps in Windows 11/10:

Alarm Clock
App Installer
Calculator
Camera
Feedback Hub
Groove Music
Mail and Calendar
Maps
Movies & TV
Paint 3D
People
Photos
Snipping Tool

Create Desktop shortcut to open Windows Store apps

You can’t create a Desktop shortcut the normal way for UWP system apps. We will show you a trick using which you can create a desktop shortcut for Microsoft Store or UWP apps in Windows 11/10.

To create a Desktop shortcut for UWP system apps in Windows 10, follow our instructions outlined below.

Press Windows key + R to invoke the Run dialog.
In the Run dialog box, type shell:AppsFolder and hit Enter
This will open the default location of installed Windows apps.
Right-click any of the UWP system apps
Choose Create shortcut from the context menu.

You will get a prompt stating:

Windows can’t create a shortcut here. Do you want the shortcut to be placed on the desktop instead?

Click Yes.

That’s it you have now successfully created a Desktop shortcut for that UWP System App.

This shortcut behaves like a normal desktop application shortcut.

NOTE: You can also use PowerShell to create a desktop shortcut to open Windows Store apps.