Microsoft is announcing that will be slowly retiring the app Store for Windows 8.x and Windows Phone 8.x devices.
According to the company, starting October 31, 2018, the Microsoft Store will stop accepting new app submissions for the older version of the OS.
Starting July 1, 2019, apps for Windows Phone 8.x will stop receiving updates. However, developers can continue to push updates, but they will only be available on mobile devices running Windows 10.
Finally, on July 1, 2023, Microsoft will no longer distribute updates for apps on Windows 8.x devices, which is not surprising, since the extended support for this version of the OS ends on January 10, 2023.
If you’re still running Windows 8 or Windows 8.1, it’s now the time to upgrade to Windows 10, not only to keep getting app updates, but also to take advantage of many of the new features and security enhancements.
Are you still running Windows 8.x? If yes, why you’ve not upgraded yet? Tell us in the comments.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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