Updated April 16, 2018: As I speculated may happen, both apps have now been pulled from the Microsoft Store. It's still possible we may see official Uber and YouTube PWAs hit the Microsoft Store at some point, but it could be a while. The original story follows.
Last week marked the introduction of the first group of Progressive Web Apps (PWA) on the Microsoft Store, all published by Microsoft itself. Now, it looks like a third-party developer is looking to get in on the action with a couple of big-name apps: YouTube and Uber (via Reddit).
Both apps are published by a developer called Pladoo Interactive, so they don't have the official backing of either YouTube or Uber. Additionally, they don't look to be PWAs in the strict sense, even though they're labeled as such. Rather, both apps are web wrappers that provide access to each service. The YouTube app, for example, simply loads the website in an app window, complete with banner advertisements and all.
In the description of each app, Pladoo Interactive says that both are a part of a "Windows Revival Project" it is undertaking, the objective of which is to "bring apps to Windows 10 Mobile using PWA based apps or even native apps." The developer promises more apps are to come.
As a basic way to access each service, the apps do their job. However, because the Edge platform on Windows 10 Mobile doesn't support PWA features like service workers, which can provide push notifications from the web. If you're looking for a native YouTube app, there are other third-party options worth checking out. However, Uber recently dropped support for its Windows 10 app, so this version may be a viable alternative.
It's worth noting that, since neither app is an official release from YouTube or Uber, there's a chance that either company could try to pull them. However, if you want to give either a shot, they're up for grabs on the Microsoft Store now.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Update 6: Microsoft wants all of TikTok, but Trump's order may interfere
The Financial Times reports that as part of negotiations, Microsoft is now inquiring whether it can buy all of TikTok, instead of just the business in the US., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This new plan would include India and Europe (and excluding China).
Surface Duo and double Dans take over this week's Android Central podcast
Need even more Surface Duo in your life? Check out the latest Android Central podcast, in which Daniel Rubino and Daniel Bader (double the Dans!) discuss Surface Duo, Microsoft's Samsung love affair, and Project xCloud.
This is the best Windows 10 tablet you can buy right now
There are many Windows 10 tablets on the market, but it's hard to sort through the rubbish. Here's our picks for the best Windows 10 tablets you can buy right now. At the top of our list is the Surface Pro X, which we think is the best due to its ARM processor, large display, and thin form factor while still packing good battery life and excellent performance.
10 must-have apps for any new PC
You just purchased a new PC and set it up, and now you're looking for some great apps. Look no further. These are the best apps for your new Windows 10 PC.