Earlier this week, Microsoft made headlines in the tech world—not for a shiny new feature or a groundbreaking update, but rather for officially declaring another Windows 11 feature deceased. Yes, you guessed it, the “suggested actions” feature has been sent to join the digital graveyard, and honestly, can we even say we’ll miss it?
In practice, the feature was limited and poorly implemented. Windows Native fans typically didn’t even realize it was available until now. The feature was positioned as a well-meaning enhancement, but it was woefully undercooked—more like half-baked than fully realized.
Contextual actions have been done right in other ecosystems—take Android, for example. On that platform, actions are laid out neatly in the context menu, making them intuitive and easily accessible. A robust feature like this does not deserve to be treated like a forgotten app on your phone.
It seems that Microsoft might be moving toward more robust functionality through its Copilot+ feature, rumored to take on suggested actions and then some. If so, we can only hope it brings better execution to the table.
We may have lost a feature, but here's hoping the future holds more thoughtful design and execution. Now, if only we could figure out how to get rid of those unnecessary ads in Windows, cooking up an OS that’s as delightful as it is functional. Until then, we'll keep our fingers crossed for the next update!
What are your thoughts on the removal of suggested actions? Were you even aware that it existed? Join the conversation in the comments below!
Source: XDA Rest in peace to another undercooked Windows feature
What Were Suggested Actions?
For those blissfully unaware, suggested actions were intended to offer contextual help by popping up suggestions after copying content. Imagine this: you copy a date, and voilà! A menu appears suggesting you add this date to your Outlook calendar. Sounds useful, right? Sadly, it was never quite that simple.In practice, the feature was limited and poorly implemented. Windows Native fans typically didn’t even realize it was available until now. The feature was positioned as a well-meaning enhancement, but it was woefully undercooked—more like half-baked than fully realized.
Why Did It Fail?
So, what went wrong? Beyond its general obscurity, the implementation of suggested actions was particularly confusing. Instead of displaying suggestions right where they made sense—in your regular context menu—the options suddenly appeared only after you did some copying. Imagine trying to slice bread only to find the butter sitting all the way across the kitchen!Contextual actions have been done right in other ecosystems—take Android, for example. On that platform, actions are laid out neatly in the context menu, making them intuitive and easily accessible. A robust feature like this does not deserve to be treated like a forgotten app on your phone.
It seems that Microsoft might be moving toward more robust functionality through its Copilot+ feature, rumored to take on suggested actions and then some. If so, we can only hope it brings better execution to the table.
Broader Implications
The demise of suggested actions isn’t just a sad little footnote; it reflects larger trends in features within Windows 11. Increasingly, users are calling on Microsoft to focus on what's truly functional and innovative rather than piling on the fluff. With an increasing number of users frustrated by Windows ads—yes, ads in an operating system!—some are left scratching their heads, wondering just what direction Microsoft is headed.A Call to Action
What does this mean for the future of Windows? It suggests that perhaps Microsoft needs to take a closer look at what users actually want from their OS. With features rolling in and out faster than you can spell 'Windows 11', it poses some critical questions:- What features are most beneficial to you?
- Are there functionalities you want to see revived or improved?
- How do you feel about the direction of Windows regarding ads and bloat?
In Conclusion
As we say goodbye to another underwhelming Windows feature, we're reminded that not every idea sees the light of day. The reality is that Microsoft stands at a critical crossroads. Emphasizing user-centric design and effective implementation can help maximize the operating system's potential.We may have lost a feature, but here's hoping the future holds more thoughtful design and execution. Now, if only we could figure out how to get rid of those unnecessary ads in Windows, cooking up an OS that’s as delightful as it is functional. Until then, we'll keep our fingers crossed for the next update!
What are your thoughts on the removal of suggested actions? Were you even aware that it existed? Join the conversation in the comments below!
Source: XDA Rest in peace to another undercooked Windows feature