Microsoft already initiated the slow demise of Groove Music when it killed off its streaming subscription earlier this year. But while the app continues to live on as a general music player for Xbox, Windows 10 and Windows 10 Mobile, Microsoft has something more permanent in mind for iOS and Android users.
As first spotted by Microsoft watcher Richard Hay on Twitter, Microsoft has quietly announced that the Groove apps for iOS and Android will be retired on December 1, 2018. After that date, the apps will no longer function. So what will happen to your music? Luckily it'll still stick around in OneDrive. From Microsoft:
Your personal music files will still be available on OneDrive. You can access OneDrive online or through the OneDrive app on any supported device. To keep playing your music and playlists in Groove, use the Windows 10 Groove Music apps on PC, Xbox, or Windows Phone.
Still, you'll want to hold on to the app if you've already downloaded it. In a separate FAQ, Microsoft says that both apps will no longer be available for download as of June 1, 2018.
Given Microsoft's change of course with Groove, and its own recommendation to switch to Spotify instead, it isn't surprising that the company would pull the apps from iOS and Android; they aren't getting much play anyway. However, it's still a downer for Microsoft fans who may have been sticking with Groove on either platform.
You'll have through December 1 to keep using both apps. After that point, Microsoft recommends either playing your music through the OneDrive app, through another streaming app, or via Google Play Music or iTunes Match.
Updated May 31, 2018 Added reference to Groove apps no longer being available for download on June 1.
