Microsoft is in process to remove the Windows Media Player app starting with the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update (version 1709). A number of reports have been surfacing in the web claiming that update KB4046355 for version 1709 removes the beloved Windows Media Player.
Back in July 2017, Microsoft published a list of several legacy features leaving Windows 10, and while Windows Media Player didn’t make it to the list, it seems that is the case with update KB4046355, which is not available for those still enrolled in the Windows Insider Program.
However, it’s yet not clear if it’s a bug with the update or Microsoft is indeed trying to retire the media player now the Windows 10 has a the Groove Music and Movies & TV apps.
In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to bring back the legacy Windows Media Player application on the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update.
How to install Windows Media Player
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Open Settings.
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Click on Apps.
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Click on Apps & features.
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Click the manage optional features link.
Apps & features settings -
Click the Add a feature button.
Manage optional features settings -
Select Windows Media Player.
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Click the Install button.
Install Windows Media Player on Windows 10
Once you’ve completed the steps, you can start using Windows Media Player again on your Windows 10 machine.
Do you still use the legacy player? Tell us in the comments.
Update October 10, 2017: It appears that it was a bug with the update that removed the app from some installations. According to Microsoft watcher, Mary Jo Foley, Microsoft is not removing Windows Media Player from Windows 10, as such you can expect to still access to the app for years to come.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].