Microsoft has announced plans to phase out the Control Panel, a staple of the Windows operating system since its introduction 39 years ago, in favor of the more modern Settings app. This announcement was made in a support document released earlier this week.
For many users, this shift may not come as a surprise, as Microsoft has been encouraging users to transition to the Settings app since October 2020. According to Microsoft, “The Settings app […] offers a more modern and streamlined experience.”
The End of an Era: Control Panel to Be Retired
The Control Panel has been integral to Windows since 1985, allowing users to manage devices and printers, adjust system settings, and customize their desktop environments. However, the Settings app, which debuted with Windows 8 in 2012, has gradually taken over these functions and become the primary hub for system management.
While Microsoft has yet to specify a timeline for the Control Panel’s retirement, the company’s announcement provides valuable insight for users as they prepare for this transition. The departure of the Control Panel heralds the end of an era, symbolizing a significant shift in the Windows experience that long-time PC users will undoubtedly remember.
