Windows 11 Specs and System Requirements | Microsoft Windows

Key Changes and Removals in Windows 11

This article from Microsoft outlines significant changes and removals in Windows 11. Many applications and features have been deprecated or removed entirely, impacting user experience and functionality.

Removed Features:

• Cortana: Removed as a standalone app.
• Internet Explorer 11: Replaced by Microsoft Edge with IE mode.
• Mail, Calendar, and People: Support ended December 31, 2024.
• Math Input Panel: Removed; Math Recognizer available on demand.
• Paint 3D: Removed from Microsoft Store.
• Quick Status (Lockscreen): Removed.
• Timeline: Removed; some similar functionality in Microsoft Edge.
• Wallet: Removed.
• WordPad: To be removed in Windows 11, version 24H2.

Modified Features:

• Start Menu: Significantly changed; named groups and folders no longer supported. Pinned apps and sites don't migrate from Windows 10.
• Taskbar: People removed; some icons may not appear in the system tray; alignment fixed to the bottom.
• Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch: Merged into a single experience.
• News & Interests: Evolved with new functionality accessible via the Widgets icon.

The article also notes changes to S Mode (available only for Windows 11 Home), Windows Deployment Services (partially deprecated), Windows Mixed Reality (removed in 24H2, but existing devices will work until November 2026), and Windows Store for Business/Education (Private Store tab removed).