Microsoft continues to update the Windows operating system, giving it new functions and capabilities, while also working to abandon old functions that have become unpopular with users or are simply outdated. For example, the company will soon abandon Paint 3D as part of Windows 11. As it became known, the same fate awaits the classic “Control Panel“.
The classic “Control Panel” appeared back in 1985 with the release of Windows 1.0. Since then, it has not changed much. In the current version of Windows 11, it looks similar to its original form, depending on the selected display settings.
Microsoft’s Long-Standing Plans for Replacement
Microsoft has long dreamed of getting rid of this component of the OS. The first such talk began to appear back in 2011, when a screenshot of the then new Windows 8 operating system got on the Internet. The image of the operating system interface hinted that Microsoft wanted to replace the “Control Panel” with a new “PC Settings” window. The function was developed taking into account support for touch control. However, in the end, nothing happened to the classic Control Panel, and it continued to migrate from one version of Windows to another.
In 2015, rumors began to circulate again that Microsoft might finally get rid of the Control Panel. In a conversation with the media, one of the high-ranking representatives of the company allegedly reported this, stating that “Settings will eventually replace Control Panel.” However, the classic settings did not go anywhere back then, since the company did not transfer some of the Control Panel functions to other applications within Windows.
The Current Status and Future of Control Panel
Although the last statement about replacing Control Panel was made almost 10 years ago, since then the company has never officially spoken about plans to replace it, notes NIX Solutions. Fresh information appeared literally a few days ago. On the support page on the official Microsoft website, in the section on the functions of the Windows operating system, the company, in particular, reports: “Control Panel is in the process of being removed [from Windows] in favor of the Settings application.”
In the same section, Microsoft adds that there are very specific reasons why Control Panel still exists: “Control Panel is in the process of being retired [from Windows] in favor of the Settings app, which will offer a more modern, streamlined experience. Tip: While Control Panel is still included in Windows for compatibility reasons and to provide access to some settings that haven’t migrated yet, we recommend using the Settings app whenever possible.”
As Microsoft continues to work on this transition, we’ll keep you updated on any significant changes or announcements regarding the future of Control Panel and the Settings app in Windows.