Upgrade Windows Phone to Windows 10 - A Step-by-Step Guide
Windows 10 Availability for Windows Phones
Currently, Microsoft offers two phone models equipped with Windows 10 as the native operating system. However, the rollout of this update to older, existing Windows phone devices is still in progress.
Despite potential delays or blocks imposed by cellular carriers, many Windows phone owners are finding they can upgrade to Windows 10 right now.
Utilizing the Windows Insider Program
For several years, the Windows Insider Preview Program has provided a pathway for Windows phone users to access the newest Windows operating system versions independently of carrier approval.
This program facilitates an upgrade to Windows 10, followed by a transition to the stable builds, bypassing the need to remain in preview versions.
Important Considerations and Potential Risks
Warning: Microsoft explicitly states that this method isn't intended for typical users and may introduce instability.
It is therefore not recommended to perform this upgrade on a device that serves as your primary phone.
Should issues arise during the process, Microsoft’s Windows Device Recovery Tool can assist in restoring your phone’s software.
However, it’s important to note that this tool doesn’t guarantee compatibility with all Windows phone models.
Therefore, proceed with caution and understand the potential risks before attempting this upgrade.
Determining Windows 10 Compatibility for Your Phone
Successful implementation of this method hinges on whether your Windows phone is supported by both the Windows 10 operating system and the Windows Insider Preview program. A comprehensive list of compatible phones is maintained by Microsoft and can be found on their website.
Currently, a broad range of Microsoft Lumia devices (previously known as Nokia Lumia) are supported. Beyond the Lumia series, the HTC One (M8) for Windows and the LG Lancet are the only non-Lumia phones confirmed to function.
Storage and Operating System Requirements
To be eligible, these phones must possess a minimum of 8 GB of internal storage. Furthermore, the devices must have initially been released with Windows Phone 8.1 pre-installed.
Microsoft has also developed an "Upgrade Advisor" application specifically for Windows phones. Installing this app on your device provides a more precise assessment of its upgrade eligibility and outlines any necessary preparatory steps.
It's important to note that even phones capable of receiving the complete Windows 10 upgrade may not be granted access to the preview program.
- Ensure your phone meets the minimum storage requirement of 8GB.
- Verify that your phone originally shipped with Windows Phone 8.1.
- Consult the Microsoft compatibility list for confirmed support.
Enrolling in the Windows Insider Program Using Your Microsoft Account
Related: A guide to joining the Windows Insider Program and evaluating upcoming features.
Similar to the Windows 10 desktop Insider builds, participation in these releases necessitates enrollment in the Windows Insider Program. Access to the program is complimentary; simply navigate to Microsoft’s Windows Insider website.
Log in using the Microsoft account associated with your Windows phone to complete the enrollment process.
Merely registering for the program does not guarantee automatic delivery of Insider builds to your Windows PCs and phones. Separate opt-in procedures are required for each device.
Program membership grants you the option to receive preview builds on each device, should you desire to do so.
Initiating Windows 10 Installation on Your Phone: Step Three
Prior to proceeding, it is advisable to connect your mobile device to a Wi-Fi network. This precaution will help minimize the consumption of your mobile data allowance during the download of a substantial operating system update.
Connecting your phone to a power source is also recommended. This ensures uninterrupted operation and prevents the device from losing power during the update process.
Begin by locating and tapping the "Store" tile on your Windows phone to launch the Store application. Within the Store, utilize the search function to find "Windows Insider."
From the search results, select the "Windows Insider" application, developed by Microsoft Corporation, and initiate its installation.
Upon successful installation, open the application and select the "Get Preview Builds" option. The app will then guide you through the necessary steps to download Windows 10 onto your device and begin the update procedure.
For a more stable experience, choosing the "Insider Slow" builds is generally preferred. These builds offer a more thoroughly tested version of Windows 10.
Alternatively, the "Insider Fast" option provides access to the latest features, but comes with a higher likelihood of encountering instability due to less extensive testing.
Following your selection, Microsoft will present a final warning, emphasizing the experimental nature of the software and the potential for unforeseen issues. Acknowledge this warning by tapping "Accept."
Your phone will then restart and be enrolled in the insider preview channel, receiving future updates accordingly.
The phone will automatically begin downloading and installing updates. You can monitor the progress by navigating to "Settings," then selecting "Phone Update" within the "Update + Backup" section.
Once the download is complete, you will be prompted to install the update, with an estimated installation time of five to ten minutes. However, the actual duration may vary depending on your device's processing speed.
The upgrade process can be left to complete unattended. Upon completion, your phone will reboot and launch into the Windows 10 Mobile environment.
Opting Out of Future Windows 10 Preview Builds
After installing the Windows 10 insider preview builds, a choice exists: continue receiving updates to the latest builds, or revert to the most stable version of Windows 10 available.
To initiate this process, launch the Windows Insider app on your Windows 10-equipped phone. Should reinstallation be necessary, the app can be downloaded again from the Store.
Select the ellipsis menu – represented by the "..." button – located at the app's bottom. From the displayed menu, choose "Leave Program" and authenticate with your Microsoft account to validate your decision.
Confirm your intention to exit the program by clicking "Continue." Once the stable Windows 10 version aligns with the software currently on your device, you will be transitioned back to the standard stable channel.
Update Control and Carrier Influence
Microsoft’s updated approach to updates prevents carriers from delaying or blocking critical updates, including security, stability improvements, and new features – a common practice with Android devices.
However, the Windows 10 upgrade itself remains subject to potential delays or blocks by cellular carriers, and intervention from these providers is anticipated.
Utilizing an older Windows phone, or acquiring one affordably, provides an opportunity to experience Windows 10 immediately and explore the future direction of Microsoft’s smartphone platform.
It's important to note that not all features will be accessible; specifically, the Continuum feature, enabling a Windows 10 phone to power a PC desktop, necessitates a phone specifically designed to support it.
Image Credit: Microsoft
