Microsoft is removing the Control Panel

A senior Microsoft engineer has confirmed that the company plans to phase out the Windows Control Panel in favor of the modern Settings app. He added that File Explorer and the Start Menu will also receive a UI overhaul and performance improvements in the coming months, starting with the April update next week.

Of course, we've been hearing about this Control Panel since the release of Windows 10, without seeing it in practice.

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Speaking to Windows users at X this week, Microsoft Design Director March Rogers said the company is working to address several UI issues across Windows 11. To that end, all settings options are being consolidated into a single location, ensuring that users will no longer have to switch between the Control Panel and the Settings app for basic tasks like configuring networks or printers.

Rogers revealed that the migration process is taking a long time because the Control Panel contains many different device configuration options and drivers, and engineers want to ensure that nothing gets broken when migrating those settings. He added that the Settings app pages are being redesigned for better clarity and compatibility with dark mode.

Control Panel is still better than Settings when it comes to network settings. Needs to be fixed if you want everyone using Settings. Also Printer Properties still reverts to Control Panel.

— Dave's Not Here (@dave25804417) April 5, 2026

Users can also expect several other changes as part of Microsoft's renewed focus on speed, stability, and performance, including a more consistent UI experience across Windows 11. After years of complaints about bugs, interface issues, and lag, the next updates are expected to offer more elegance and improved usability rather than bringing new features.

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Although the press releases will range from very select to rare, I said I'd pass...because sometimes the editors hide.