Microsoft is killing off the Mobile Plans app in Windows

Many people aren't aware of its existence since it's primarily meant for Windows PCs which support cellular capabilities, but Mobile Plans is an application that can be used to connect Windows machines to cellular networks via mobile operators. The aim is to provide a direct link between the customer and their mobile operator and promote the adoption of eSIM technology. Now, Microsoft has announced that it is retiring the Mobile Plans app in Windows 10 and 11.

Instead of the Mobile Plans app, Microsoft is recommending customers purchase data plans directly on their respective mobile operator's website. This gives mobile operators more flexibility since they'll be able to configure their own sign-up portals and payment flows, while customers will benefit from not having to deal with one other app. The Redmond tech firm has also highlighted built-in functionality in Windows 11's Settings app, which prompts you to share your device's identifiers with the mobile operator. Once you agree to this, your eSIM is automatically provisioned without needing to manually configure anything.

It is important to note that customers will not be losing cellular capabilities, only the Mobile Plans app will be going away and users will be expected to seamlessly transition to web portals hosted by their mobile operators. Microsoft is already testing this migration process and the enablement through the Windows Settings app directly with mobile carriers.

The Mobile Plans app will continue working as-is until February 27, 2026, after which it will become non-functional and be removed from the Microsoft Store too. Until then, Microsoft will continue working with mobile operators to streamline the transition process. The Redmond tech giant expects carriers to update their websites with dedicated instructions for eSIM technologies in Windows 11, but you can find more general guidance on the topic here, which contains separate instructions for both Windows 10 and 11.

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Posted Friday 29 August 2025 at 12:34 pm AEST (my time).

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