Windows 8 includes an updated version of Powershell which supports AppX distribution.



From WinRumors:

AppX is Microsoft’s new method for packaging and deploying applications in Windows 8. It is believed that the software giant is preparing an application model codenamed “Jupiter”. The model would allow developers to create native applications that can be easily deployed using AppX packaging. The container method is similar to Microsoft’s Silverlight-based application package (XAP). XAPs are generated from Silverlight projects and include the application assembly itself and an application manifest XAML file. The manifest file contains deployment details required to run the application. Microsoft appears to have a similar deployment method with AppX. The software giant uses AppXManifest.xml files for ease of deployment in Windows 8. The file includes all the necessary deployment information require to run the application.

  Windows 8 includes Powershell 3.0 and AppX distribution cmdlets