Windows 11 gets new Media Player app

The new Media Player app for Windows 11 brings essential playback support for local audio and video files.

Windows 11 Media Player
Windows 11 Media Player (Source: Microsoft)
  • Microsoft made available the preview of the new Media Player app.
  • The app is available for Windows 11 (Dev Channel).
  • Media Player app supports audio and video playback and replaces the Groove Music app.
  • The classic Windows Media Player will continue to be available.

A new Media Player app is now available for download as a preview on Windows 11 for all the devices enrolled in the Dev Channel of the Windows Insider Program. The app includes a brand-new interface that follows the Windows 11 trend, and it’s been built to play videos and music files stored locally on your computer. (See also this hands-on video with the app at the Pureinfotech YouTube channel.)

The Media Player replaces the legacy Groove Music app, and it supports both audio and video playback. As part of the features, it’s pretty basic. You can create your playlists, and there’s support for album art and artist information. Also, the app will automatically scan and add all your folders containing music and videos stored locally on your computer.

The new interface features rounded corners, seme-transparent materials, and it supports the dark and light color system modes. However, the layout is similar to the Groove Music app with navigation on the left and content on the right and play controls at the bottom with an option to enable mini-player mode.

Media Player
Media Player (Source: Microsoft)

Although Windows 11 is getting a new Media Player app, the classic Windows Media Player will continue to be available through the Windows Tools settings.

The new Media Player app is rolling out slowly. If you are running the latest preview of Windows 11, but you don’t see the app, then open the Microsoft Store and check for updates on the Library page.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of (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.

You can follow him on YouTube, Threads, BlueSky, X (Twitter), LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].