Windows Phone was once heralded as one of the finest mobile operating systems to grace our devices. Fast forward to 2025, six years after Microsoft officially abandoned its promising mobile OS, I decided to revisit Windows Phone, and surprisingly, the experience was notably enjoyable.
The Reality Check
To set the scene, it’s essential to understand the current status of Windows Phone. Microsoft concluded support for this operating system in December 2019, which means that if you power on a Windows Phone today, none of the external applications or services are operational. There’s no way to download new apps, and users with older versions of Windows Phone are unable to perform updates.
Hence, using a Windows Phone as your primary device in 2025 is not advisable. However, if you happen to have an old unit lying around, resurrecting it can be a rewarding endeavor, as these devices may still possess more functionality than anticipated.
Reviving Old Devices
Currently, I have two models at my disposal: the Nokia Lumia 525 and the BLU Win HD LTE. Both devices were considered budget options at the time of their release, lacking the specifications of premium smartphones. After spending over six years in a drawer, my expectations for their revival were minimal.
The first step involved charging both devices. The Nokia Lumia wouldn’t charge, which I traced back to a defective battery. Fortunately, it features a removable battery, simplifying the repair process—if I can find a compatible replacement. As of now, my search for a suitable battery continues.
In contrast, the BLU Win HD LTE has a non-removable battery, typical of contemporary devices. Given that I purchased this phone in 2015, I was skeptical about its battery condition. Surprisingly, the device charged successfully, allowing me to power it up.
My luck in reviving these Windows Phones was considerable, as neither had sustained major damage. Nonetheless, if your device experiences a cracked screen or significant damage, sourcing replacement parts will likely be a challenge.
The Windows Phone Experience
With the devices operational, I was pleasantly surprised by how much of the original Windows Phone experience remains. The live tiles continue to function, refreshing with images and updates from the last time the phone was active.
There’s something uniquely refreshing about having all pertinent information readily available on the home screen, delivered in an interface that feels visually appealing without being overwhelming.
In terms of performance, the device still holds up admirably. I encountered no lag while navigating the interface, and I was able to access the majority of my stored data. In fact, scrolling through the Windows Phone felt even smoother than using my roommate’s iPhone 12.
The keyboard deserves special mention; it was innovative at its inception and remains excellent to use. It includes several adjustable features and would be a welcome addition to my Pixel 9a.
Calling and texting operate as they should, albeit with certain configurations needed for the SIM card. I had to contact my carrier to ensure the SIM functioned in LTE mode due to discrepancies in 5G service across different areas in New Delhi in 2025.
While the cameras are operational, their quality pales in comparison to the features found in modern smartphones. Lacking the advanced computational photography capabilities prevalent today, the camera delivers what it captures in real-time. For a clearer perspective on the image quality, refer to the comparison between images taken with my Pixel 9a and the BLU Win HD LTE, featuring unedited photos (with the Pixel image cropped to 1920 x 1080).
The BLU Win HD LTE has an 8 MP rear camera, but for those lucky enough to possess a Lumia 1020 with its renowned 41 MP camera, good-quality images are still achievable with older Windows Phones.
Another noteworthy mention is the Maps application, which remains functional, allowing for navigation—even if it lacks the efficient routing, real-time updates, and new location information found in today’s mapping services. It proves useful in situations where your primary device runs low on power.
Back in 2018, I encountered limited app availability on Windows Phone, missing key applications like YouTube and Instagram. With the Microsoft Store now defunct, users are left with the apps already installed. While most of these are no longer functional, I was surprised to find that Steam was still accessible, allowing me to log into my old account.
The Nostalgia Factor: Worth the Effort?
Using a Windows Phone in 2025 is reminiscent of driving a classic car—while it’s not the most practical choice, the experience carries a distinct nostalgia. However, as soon as you require functionality beyond making calls or snapping photos, the limitations of the operating system become evident.
App availability is virtually nonexistent, and while internet browsing is possible through Wi-Fi or mobile data, most websites are incompatible with the outdated browser based on Internet Explorer.
Ultimately, the primary tasks achievable with an old Windows Phone are basic: making calls, sending texts, navigating, capturing photos, and enjoying music. Web browsing may or may not work depending on website compatibility with Microsoft Edge’s Internet Explorer base. For comprehensive features, transitioning to Android or iOS is essential.
Furthermore, the Connect feature that allowed synchronization with Windows 10 PCs is otherwise defunct, which is not unexpected given the declining support for Windows 10 itself. Currently, Phone Link is the only viable option for connecting a Windows Phone to a Windows computer.
Despite these obstacles, there’s an undeniable charm in using the Windows Phone OS that persists. Would I recommend purchasing one in 2025? Most certainly not. However, if you possess one gathering dust, it could serve as an excellent device for a child or as an alternative backup phone. At the very least, it’s a delightful trip down memory lane.
The user experience remains impressively seamless, often evoking a sense that your phone is an extension of your PC. Using one while out and about is sure to spark conversations, just don’t expect to book an Uber ride with it.
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