Goodbye Suggested Actions: Microsoft Deprecates Feature in Windows 11

In a bittersweet announcement that hit many Windows aficionados right in the feels, Microsoft recently confirmed that the beloved "suggested actions" feature will soon find itself in the realm of the deprecated in Windows 11. If you’ve ever copied a phone number or a future date and marveled at the helpful contextual options that popped up to create an event or make a call, brace yourself—this handy feature is being sidelined.

A Fond Farewell to Suggested Actions​

According to a blog post shared on December 12, 2024, by Microsoft, Windows 11 users will no longer receive updates for the suggested actions feature. Introduced in a prior 2022 update, this function provided users with relevant actions based on copied items—an intuitive suggestion that often made digital life smoother for many. However, Microsoft indicates that the end of this feature may be attributed to dwindling usage rates. Has it become another classic case of technology moving on while we reminisce?
The company stated that while suggested actions won’t be removed outright, they are indeed deprecated. This means that, while it may still linger on your screen for a while, it won’t receive further support—so don’t be surprised if it starts acting a bit quirky in future updates.

Entering the Era of Click To Do​

But fret not, dear Windows users! This isn't just a tale of loss; there's a glimmer of hope as Microsoft rolls out its Click To Do features, which offer a semblance of the same usability experience—but there's a twist. These functions are exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, meaning users with standard devices could feel left out in the cold. It's like being invited to a party where all your friends are dancing to the latest tunes, and you're stuck outside hearing muffled beats through the walls.

Microsoft’s Broader Feature Housecleaning​

This isn’t the only feature facing the chopping block; Microsoft recently updated its deprecated features list, which also includes some long-standing favorites such as Paint 3D, WordPad, Legacy DRM services, among others. It seems the old guard is making way for the new, with the Settings app steadily replacing the nostalgic Control Panel in what feels like an ongoing tech remix. It begs the question: are we trading away beloved functionality for the sake of modernization?

A Glimpse into The Future​

During these changes, users are left contemplating what’s next. What will Microsoft remove or end support for next? Is the era of user-friendly features fading into the oblivion of obsolescence, replaced by new functionalities catering to advanced hardware and capabilities? As the landscape of Windows continues to evolve, the focus has steadily shifted towards AI integration and more advanced operational paradigms.
In the wake of these changes, it’s a great time to reassess what features truly matter to you and your productivity. While users still have many robust tools within Windows 11, the vanishing of such user-friendly options signals perhaps a shift towards a more complex user experience.

Wrapping Up​

In conclusion, as we bid farewell to the "suggested actions" feature, we’re reminded of the evolving nature of technology. The need for adaptability has never been more apparent, not just for developers but for users as well. Whether it’s learning to adopt new features or finding workarounds when favorite tools become deprecated, the tech community must pivot in a landscape that constantly shifts beneath our feet.
Have you relied on the suggested actions feature? What changes are you anticipating within Windows 11? It’s time to share your thoughts—let’s get the conversation rolling!

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Source: Digital Trends Bid farewell to this small but helpful Windows 11 feature