Join the Microsoft Insider Program to access preview builds and early apps by enrolling through Settings and selecting a channel like Dev or Beta. 2. Check the Microsoft Store for “Join the beta” or “Preview program” options on specific app or game pages and sign up with your Microsoft account. 3. Follow developers and publishers on social media, websites, or Discord to catch early access announcements and sign-up links for closed or open betas. 4. Use the Xbox Insider Hub to opt into game previews by installing the app, signing in, and browsing available preview builds, especially for Xbox and PC titles. 5. Enable Developer Mode in Settings to sideload pre-release apps not yet on the Store, allowing testing of unreleased software through direct downloads or developer platforms. By actively participating in these programs and staying engaged with developers, you significantly increase your chances of gaining early access to apps and games on the Microsoft Store.

Getting early access to apps and games on the Microsoft Store usually means joining preview programs, beta tests, or early release opportunities before the general public. While not all apps or games offer early access, here are several reliable ways to increase your chances of getting in early:

1. Join the Microsoft Insider Program

The Microsoft Insider Program (formerly Windows Insider) gives users access to preview builds of Windows and early versions of Microsoft Store apps. Some apps and games are released exclusively to Insiders first.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Insider Program.
• Register with your Microsoft account.
• Choose a channel (Dev, Beta, or Release Preview) based on how early you want updates.
• Once enrolled, you’ll often get early access to updated or preview versions of Microsoft-developed apps like Xbox apps, Photos, or new Store features.

Note: This mainly benefits apps developed by Microsoft or partners closely working with them.

2. Check for Beta or Preview Options in the Microsoft Store

Some third-party apps and games offer beta or preview versions directly through the Microsoft Store.

• Open the Microsoft Store app.
• Search for the app or game you're interested in.
• Look for a section labeled “Join the beta” or “Preview program” on the app’s page.
• If available, click “Join” — you may need to sign up or be signed in with a Microsoft account.

Once you join, the beta version will install or become available for download. You might be asked to provide feedback through the developer’s website or via Microsoft’s feedback hub.

3. Follow Developers and Publishers on Social Media or Websites

Many developers announce early access opportunities through:

• Official websites
• Discord servers
• Twitter/X, Reddit, or Facebook groups
• Email newsletters

For example, game studios like Asobo Studio or Xbox Game Studios often run closed or open betas and share sign-up links directly. Signing up early increases your chances of being selected.

Tips:

• Look for phrases like “pre-release test,” “closed beta,” or “early access sign-up.”
• Some games offer early access through the Xbox Insider Hub (for console and PC).

4. Use Xbox Insider Hub for Game Previews (Especially for PC and Xbox)

If you're interested in games, the Xbox Insider Hub is one of the best ways to get early access.

Steps:

• Install the Xbox Insider Hub from the Microsoft Store.
• Sign in with your Xbox Live account.
• Navigate to the Game Previews or Apps section.
• Browse available preview builds and opt-in if eligible.
• Some games require you to be in a specific region or have a Game Pass subscription.

Popular titles like Halo Infinite or Forza Motorsport have used this system for early testing.

5. Enable Developer Mode for App Testing (Advanced)

If you're a developer or tech-savvy user, you can sideload or test pre-release apps using developer tools.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > For developers.
• Turn on Developer Mode or Sideload apps.
• This allows installation of apps not yet published on the Store, often shared via direct download or through platforms like GitHub.

While not exactly “early access” through the Store, it’s a way to try unreleased software.

Not all apps or games offer early access, and availability often depends on the developer’s choice. But by joining insider programs, monitoring developer channels, and using tools like the Xbox Insider Hub, you can significantly boost your chances.

Basically, it’s about being visible to developers and signaling interest — the more engaged you are, the more likely you’ll get invited.

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