Windows Media Player
On current versions of Windows 11, this package provides the Windows Media Player app.
since 0.9.8.11
Purpose
Identifier: microsoft.zunemusic
By default, Setup Foundry removes the app package from existing user accounts and from provisioning for new accounts.
On current versions of Windows 11, this package provides the Windows Media Player app. It plays local music and video files, catalogs content from the Music and Videos folders and any additional folders selected by the user, and manages a media library, play queue, and playlists. Depending on the app version, it also supports audio CD playback and ripping CD tracks to audio files.
On Windows 10 and early versions of Windows 11, the same package name belonged to the Groove Music app, which primarily played and organized music. Microsoft replaced Groove Music with the new Media Player experience on Windows 11 and migrated existing library and playlist data to the replacement app.
Notes
Additional effects
The package may be registered as the default app for supported audio or video file types. Other applications can continue to open media through their own playback features or another installed player.
Removing this package does not remove the media technologies or codecs built into Windows. Windows Media Player Legacy is also a separate optional Windows component and is not removed with this app package.
Privacy and security
To build its library, the app reads file names, locations, and media metadata from the music and video folders included in its scope. Library information, playlists, and app preferences are stored for the individual user. Features that display additional album or artist information may use an internet connection; the available online features differ between Groove Music and later versions of Windows Media Player.
After removal, this package no longer processes the media library or makes connections associated with its own online features. Existing music and video files stored outside the app’s private data remain on the device. Removal does not change Windows diagnostic-data settings or network activity generated by other media applications.
Effects of the change
Windows Media Player—or Groove Music on older systems—is no longer available. Its Start menu entry and any pinned shortcuts disappear or cease to work. The app’s library, playlists, and settings can no longer be used.
If the app was the default handler for an audio or video format, Windows may ask the user to select another app the next time such a file is opened, or it may use another player that is already registered as the default. The media file itself remains intact. Another application is required for playback, library management, CD playback, and, where previously supported, audio CD ripping.
Because the package is also removed from provisioning, newly created user accounts do not receive the app automatically. It can be installed again from Microsoft Store later, provided Microsoft continues to offer it there.
Notes
The displayed product name depends on the Windows and app version: the same package appears notably as Groove Music on Windows 10 and as Windows Media Player on current Windows 11 systems. It should not be confused with the separate Windows Media Player Legacy optional component.
Microsoft documentation
Microsoft Store: Windows Media Player
Microsoft Support: Media Feature Pack for Windows 10/11 N
Windows Insider Blog: New Media Player for Windows 11