App Store
Application Store
A dedicated service for safely downloading and installing new apps on smartphones and computers.
In Simple Terms
An App Store is a system for finding and installing the apps you want on your smartphone or computer. You can search by app name to find what you're looking for, and tapping a single button starts the download and installation automatically. It also keeps your apps up to date by handling updates automatically.
Behind the Name
The name comes from shortening "Application" to "App" and pairing it with "Store" — a nod to the marketplace-like experience of browsing and picking up software. It's sometimes called an "Application Store" in full, and well-known examples include Google Play and Apple's App Store.
Take a Closer Look!
An App Store is a dedicated online gateway for adding new apps to devices like smartphones and computers. Through it, you can safely and easily download and use a wide variety of apps made by developers, right onto your device.
One of the App Store's key roles is strictly screening apps in advance for viruses and other dangerous programs. Thanks to this screening, you don't have to painstakingly check safety yourself — you can simply pick trustworthy apps with confidence. Updates are also handled automatically, which makes it easy to keep your apps current and secure at all times.
In short, an App Store is like a giant, safe "marketplace" connecting the people who make apps with the people who use them. Different phone platforms come with their own default store — iPhones use the store run by Apple, while Android devices use the one run by Google.