This can be a bit frustrating as relaunching the Windows Store or restarting the PC won’t fix the problem, and it is not easy to find Microsoft documentation to fix this problem. As such, what follows is a list of steps you can easily follow to resolve this issue: 

Instructions 

  1. Use the  +X and then hit “A” to open the Command Prompt with administrator rights.

  2. Type the following command to stop the Windows Update service:

  3. Now navigate to: And rename the SoftwareDistribution folder to SoftwareDistribution.old

  4. While in the Command Prompt re-start the Windows Update service:

  5. Restart your PC and try to update or install the Windows 8.1 apps you were unable before because of the “Pending” status. That’s all there is to it. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.