How to Run Windows Phone 8.1 on Your PC

How to Run Windows Phone 8.1 on Your PC

The mainstream release of Windows Phone 8.1 is still months away, but if you just can’t wait to run Windows Phone 8.1, this guide will teach you how to run WP 8.1 in an emulator on your PC. Follow the steps exactly as written and in order, as this is a delicate process, and can fail if you mess up.

Instructions:

Step 1: Download the Windows Phone 8.1 SDK ISO from here

(http://www.mediafire.com/download/nrx1zdyd24qmx5u/winphoneviet.WPSDK8.1DevPreview.iso)

Step 2: Download Visual Studio 2013 Express from here

(https://www.visualstudio.com/downloads/download-visual-studio-vs#d-express-windows-desktop)

Step 3: Install Visual Studio Express first!

Step 4: Extract the WP 8.1 SDK, and run the installer as an administrator (this is important)

Step 5: Wait for the installer to finish running. It’s a hefty install, so it should take a bit of time.
Step 6: Start Windows Command prompt as an administrator and run the following command (cd C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft XDE\8.1)

Step 7:Run the command (XDE.exe -vhd “C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft SDKs\Windows Phone\v8.1\Emulation\Images\Flash.vhd”)

The emulator should boot up. Enjoy WP 8.1!

Notes

1. If you’re using a 32 bit pc, this process will not work. Instead, download and install VirtualBox or VMware, and then locate and start flash.vhd from there.
2. If you’re using Windows 7, you need to install Service Pack 1 for the above process to work.
3. If you need help or more guidance, post below in the comments or use the chat function.