Summary
Microsoft is deprecating 3D Viewer; it will be removed from the Microsoft Store on July 1, 2026.
The app won’t be auto-uninstalled; it’ll still run, but may stop getting updates or support.
Use Babylon.js Sandbox for viewing 3D content; 3D Viewer debuted in the 2017 Creators Update.
Okay, hands up; how many of you have ever used the 3D Viewer on Windows? I don’t think I’ve ever deliberately opened it in my entire life, because if I wanted to view a 3D model, there are often third-party alternatives that are better for whatever tasks I’m looking at a 3D model for.
Well, it seems that Microsoft agrees with me, as the company has just announced that it’s deprecating the 3D Viewer app. However, if you’re still a huge fan of the app, you’ll be pleased to know that it doesn’t look like the app itself will stop working on your PC; it will just be removed from the Microsoft Store.
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A relic of a bygone era
If you’ve never used 3D Viewer before, it’s essentially Microsoft’s official app for, well, viewing 3D models. It was part of a big push Microsoft implemented all the way back in 2017, with the Windows 10 Creators’ Update. This big update introduced some new built-in tools designed to help creators get the most out of the system. It also introduced Paint 3D (which also got deprecated over a year ago) and a new, shinier UI.
Now, as spotted by Windows Latest, Microsoft has announced that it’s taking the axe to 3D Viewer right after it turns nine years old:
3D Viewer is deprecated and will be removed from the Microsoft Store on July 1, 2026. For viewing 3D content, you can use Babylon.js Sandbox. For more information, see Resources for deprecated features.
Note that it doesn’t say that 3D Viewer will be automatically uninstalled from everyone’s PCs; you just won’t be able to grab it from the Microsoft Store anymore. As such, if you’re one of the loyal few who adore 3D Viewer, you shouldn’t worry about losing it for now. It may fall out of support and stop receiving updates, but it’ll still be usable come July 1st.