: Navigate to Start > Settings > Apps > Optional features .
Microsoft keeps it alive for enterprise legacy needs and CD ripping. For music, it’s a lightweight champion. For video in 2026, it’s a museum piece. Install VLC or the new Media Player app from the Microsoft Store instead—you’ll get better format support, a modern interface, and no performance loss. windows media player windows 10 64-bit
Click Start and go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features . : Navigate to Start > Settings > Apps > Optional features
While not always required, a quick reboot ensures the legacy components are fully integrated. Classic WMP vs. The New "Media Player" App For video in 2026, it’s a museum piece
If you cannot play modern iPhone videos (HEIC/HEVC) or MKV files, you need the official codec.
Many users choose third-party software to handle high-definition content or obscure file types more effectively: Key Advantage Universal Playback Plays almost any file type without needing extra codecs. PotPlayer Power Users Offers granular control over video renderers and filters. MPC-HC Low Resources A lightweight "Classic" interface with modern decoding. Kodi Media Centers