Some users in Syria regain access to Microsoft Store
In Syria, some users have reported over the past few days that they can once again use Microsoft Store without a virtual private network (VPN). Through Syrian internet connections, they can open the store, browse apps and games, download and install them, and update software, The Jerusalem Post reports.
Not all users have access
At the same time, the service is not available to all users. Some users said that Microsoft Store remains blocked for them or that they cannot use certain features. According to the publication, availability may be introduced gradually or differ depending on the internet provider or account settings.
Previously, users in Syria often had to use a VPN or connections through networks outside the country to access the service. For many years, access to a number of digital products and services from US technology companies was restricted due to sanctions and other control mechanisms governing the provision of commercial and technological services to the country.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Microsoft has not explained the changes
Microsoft has not yet issued an official statement regarding the possible restoration of access to Microsoft Store in Syria and the reasons why it is not available to everyone. Previously, Syrian users, technology companies, and software developers used technical methods to bypass geographical restrictions, while some services remained fully or partially unavailable.
The changes are taking place amid the easing or lifting by Washington of a number of restrictions on Syria. This has given international companies an opportunity to review which products and services they can legally provide to users in the country. At the same time, Microsoft has not publicly linked the availability of its store to US decisions. Access to Microsoft Store also does not mean the automatic availability of all the company’s products: subscriptions, payments, cloud products, and other services may be subject to separate rules and restrictions.
