Farewell to These 5 Microsoft Applications

For those familiar with the Windows operating system, it’s evident that Microsoft frequently phases out various applications. Just as some Windows features have faded into obscurity, several applications have also been quietly discontinued, often without much fanfare. While some of these retirements may have gone unnoticed, others have left users searching for alternative solutions.

Notably, even applications that were once considered foundational have seen their lifespans come to an end. The impact varies; some retirements cause minimal disruption, while others compel users to adapt quickly to new tools.

5 Internet Explorer

The Pioneer of Web Browsing

Internet Explorer search results displayed on a computer screen.

Internet Explorer (IE) was not just a web browser; it epitomized web browsing for many users. Launched in 1995 alongside Windows, that iconic blue “e”became synonymous with internet access for countless individuals. At its zenith, IE commanded over 90% of the market share, with many viewing the internet through its lens.

However, by the late 2000s, the browsing landscape began to evolve. Competitors like Chrome and Firefox surged ahead, while IE struggled with slow page loading times, compatibility with emerging web standards, and persistent security vulnerabilities. Consequently, the browser that once felt indispensable began to seem outdated.

In 2022, Microsoft officially retired Internet Explorer, transitioning users to the more modern Edge browser. Edge, built on the Chromium framework, promises enhanced speed, security, and compliance with current web standards. To support businesses relying on older web applications, Edge includes an “IE Mode, ”ensuring a smoother transition for enterprises.

4 Paint 3D

Ambitious Yet Unfulfilled

Introduced in 2017 with the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, Paint 3D was marketed as a significant leap in creative software. The intention was to transform the classic Paint into a dynamic 3D modeling application designed for users of all ages, allowing them to create models and incorporate stickers without requiring extensive skills.

Despite its potential, Paint 3D failed to capture widespread adoption. Users largely preferred the simplicity of classic Paint for casual tasks, while professionals gravitated toward more robust solutions like Blender. As Microsoft’s focus on virtual reality diminished, the future of Paint 3D was compromised, leading to its eventual removal from the Microsoft Store in November 2024.

3 Movies & TV

Microsoft’s Streaming Aspirations

Initially known as Xbox Video, the Movies & TV app represented Microsoft’s early foray into the digital video marketplace. It was pre-installed on Windows PCs and Xbox consoles and synced with Windows Phones for purchasing and renting films and shows while also providing playback for locally stored videos.

As streaming services took over the digital landscape, Microsoft gradually retracted its offerings. On July 18, 2025, it ceased new purchases and rentals, removing associated buttons from the interface. While users can still access and download their previously purchased content, Microsoft now directs users to alternatives like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, or Movies Anywhere to expand their digital catalogs.

With recent updates in Windows 11, the local playback feature of Movies & TV has transitioned to the new Media Player app, although access to the original app remains available in the Store. Moreover, although the age-old Windows Media Player continues to exist, many users prefer applications like VLC or Plex to meet their media playback needs.

2 Groove Music

A Misguided Evolution

Multiple songs selected in Groove Music application. — Screenshot by Tayo Sogbesan — No Attribution Required

Groove Music went through several transformations before settling on its current name. Originally launched as the Zune Music Pass, it evolved into Xbox Music before being rebranded as Groove in conjunction with Windows 10. The interface was modern and integrated seamlessly with Windows, but it faced fierce competition from established giants like Spotify and Apple Music.

Ultimately, by October 2, 2017, Microsoft announced the discontinuation of Groove Music Pass at the year’s end. To ease the transition for users, the company offered prorated refunds and collaborated with Spotify to facilitate playlist and library transfers, preventing users from having to rebuild their collections. By January 2018, Groove focused solely on playing local music files and tracks from OneDrive, marking the end of its streaming ambitions. By December 1, 2018, Groove’s mobile applications were also discontinued.

1 Mail

Simplistic and Ultimately Discontinued

Mail app featured in start menu on Windows 11.

The Mail app served as the default email client for Windows 10 and early versions of Windows 11. Its lightweight, touch-friendly design seamlessly integrated with Outlook.com, Gmail, and Exchange accounts, catering to users seeking simplicity without the full Outlook experience.

However, with the rollout of the “One Outlook”initiative, Microsoft replaced Mail (along with Calendar and People) with the revamped Outlook for Windows, which has been pre-installed on Windows 11 since October 2023, and is being introduced to Windows 10 in early 2025. Official support for the Mail app was discontinued on December 31, 2024, rendering it unable to send or receive emails. While this streamlining approach enhances Microsoft’s app offerings, it leaves many users — including myself — longing for the straightforward interface of the original Mail app.

A Trend Towards Consolidation

The overarching trend behind these app retirements is a clear push towards consolidation. Microsoft appears to be moving away from a fragmented app ecosystem in favor of a streamlined selection of robust and unified applications.

Source & Images