Microsoft has announced its decision to retire the Mobile Plans app in Windows 11, with the phase-out scheduled for February 2026. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance user experience by simplifying the process of connecting PCs to mobile data.
Transitioning to a Streamlined Experience
In a recent post on the Tech Community blogs, Microsoft explained, “We are retiring the built-in Mobile Plans app in Windows to simplify how you connect your PC to mobile data.” Users will no longer need to rely on the app to purchase or manage cellular plans; instead, they will utilize their web browser and the Settings app for these tasks. This shift aims to create a more integrated experience, eliminating the need for additional app installations and establishing a direct link between Windows and mobile operators’ websites.
The Mobile Plans app has been a feature of Windows 11 for devices equipped with integrated cellular data capabilities, whether through a physical SIM card or an eSIM. It allowed users to discover mobile operators offering pay-as-you-go cellular data plans. However, as purchasing and activating cellular data plans can now be done directly online, the app has become increasingly redundant. Windows 11 supports various methods for activating a cellular data connection, including web-based options, QR codes, or manual entry.
Despite the app’s retirement, users with cellular-enabled PCs will still be able to access the functionality they require. The primary change will be in how users locate and activate their plans. Existing eSIM profiles will remain functional, although management of these plans will transition to the respective carrier’s website.
As the retirement date approaches, users of the Mobile Plans app will receive notifications regarding the end of support. Following February 27, 2026, the app will be removed from the Microsoft Store, and users will have the option to uninstall it from their devices. Additionally, Windows 11 will cease to link to the app, and the online documentation for cellular connectivity will be updated accordingly.
Cellular carriers are already adapting their systems to support Windows 11 through web-based activations, with many having trialed this functionality since June. This preparation aims to ensure a seamless transition for users as Microsoft moves towards a more web-centric solution.
In conclusion, the retirement of the Mobile Plans app signifies a shift towards a more straightforward, web-powered connectivity experience for Windows users. Microsoft emphasizes that this change will not only simplify the user experience by reducing the number of apps needed but also provide operators with greater control over the customer purchasing journey. The company expresses confidence that this transition will result in a smoother and more consistent connectivity experience for all users.
