However, if you are an enthusiast wanting to keep your device alive,

Downloading programs (apps) for a in 2026 is challenging because official support for Windows Phone 8.1 and Windows 10 Mobile has ended. The Windows Phone Store officially closed in 2019 , and standard apps like WhatsApp no longer work.

Some users report that the Store may still partially function if you are logged into a Microsoft account, but it is extremely slow and many apps are missing. 2. How to "Download" Programs (Sideloading)

The Store is completely dead. You must upgrade to Windows 10 Mobile to access any semi-functional Store or modern apps.

Since the official store is largely non-functional, you must apps from third-party archives using a PC.