Microsoft deprecates 3D Viewer, removing the app from its Store on July 1, 2026.
The 3D Viewer app will no longer be available for download after July 1, though existing installations will continue to function temporarily. Microsoft confirmed the deprecation in an updated support document, stating
"3D Viewer is deprecated and will be removed from the Microsoft Store on July 1, 2026."
First introduced in 2017 with the Windows 10 Creators Update, 3D Viewer was part of Microsoft's push to position Windows as an operating system for creators. The app allowed users to view 3D models and was bundled with other 3D-focused tools including Paint 3D, which Microsoft deprecated over a year ago.
Existing 3D Viewer installations won't be automatically uninstalled, but the app will stop receiving updates and may eventually break. Windows Latest testing shows the app still works on Windows 11, but future server-side updates could disable it completely.
Microsoft previously broke the Windows Maps app after announcing its retirement, redirecting users to Bing.com. This follows a pattern of Windows updates causing issues for users, as seen with recent Nvidia driver problems.
The company recommends third-party 3D software for viewing 3D content created on Windows, specifically mentioning Babylon.js Sandbox as an alternative. Microsoft's 3D ecosystem push included Paint 3D, 3D Viewer, Remix3D, 3D objects in File Explorer, and Windows Mixed Reality efforts.
Microsoft also confirmed it's deprecating legacy printer drivers. Windows 11 no longer supports V3 and V4 printer drivers for users who installed the January 2026 optional update KB5074105. Older printers using these drivers won't connect or work after the update, requiring hardware upgrades or OEM assistance.
The 3D Viewer deprecation marks the end of Microsoft's "3D era" that began with the Windows 10 Creators and Fall Creators Updates. The company previously attempted to replace MS Paint with Paint 3D before abandoning those plans following user backlash.
Microsoft has removed several Windows features in recent years, including WordPad, legacy DRM services, Suggested Actions, and Cortana. The 3D Viewer removal continues this pattern of retiring underused applications as Microsoft shifts focus to newer technologies like Microsoft 365 Copilot and AI services.
