Unable to reinstall the Xbox app on a different drive.

Mike B 0 Reputation points
2026-02-18T18:31:51.5333333+00:00

I am trying to re-install the Xbox app on an SSD. I have changed the "where new apps is saved" setting on my storage to the correct drive:

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After uninstalling the app and re-installing it, it always shows up under the incorrect D: drive:

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I have tried wsreset in the command prompt, with restarts but it never seems to come back on the new drive. Any ideas on how I can convince the store to respect the drive choice and re-install the app elsewhere?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Apps

1 answer

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  1. Huy-K 13,985 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-02-19T02:35:16.5566667+00:00

    Dear @Mike B,

    Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.

    We apologize for any inconvenience you may encounter when using our services/ products. Based on your description, kindly try these following steps:

    Remove the leftover WindowsApps folder from the old drive

    • Open File Explorer > View > Show > Hidden items
    • Check the root of D:
    • Look for folders and delete them:
      • WindowsApps
      • WpSystem
      • Program Files\ModifiableWindowsApps
    • If Windows says you do not have permission:
      • Right-click the folder > Properties >Security tab > Advanced > Change Owner > set to your account
      • Check Replace all child object permissions
      • Apply > then delete the folder

    Reset all Windows Store installation mappings

    • Navigate to Command Prompt (Run as Administrator) > run:
    wsreset -i
    
    • Restart your PC.
    • Reinstall Xbox app from the Store.

    Ensure the new drive is allowed for apps

    Windows requires a hidden permission flag for Store apps.

    Check this:

    • Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved > Confirm: “New apps will save to:” = your SSD (X:)

    Then ALSO check:

    • Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Other storage settings > Change where content is saved

    Remove “previous install location” registry entries

    • Press Win + R > run regedit
    • Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Appx
    • Delete this value if present: PackageVolumes
    • Restart > reinstall.

    I sincerely hope you understand that the initial steps I suggested may not have completely fixed the issue, as there may still be underlying causes that have not yet been identified. I am here to work closely with you, troubleshoot effectively, and explore every possible solution to ensure the best possible outcome.


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