Windows 11 Users Demand These Five Features Back: A Comprehensive Look

TL;DR

Windows 11 users continue to express dissatisfaction with the removal of key features. Despite being three and a half years post-release, the Feedback Hub still shows tens of thousands of votes for the return of these features.

Introduction

When Windows 11 was first released, many long-time Windows users felt that several beloved features had been removed overnight. Three and a half years later, these same complaints continue to surface in the Feedback Hub, with tens of thousands of votes advocating for their return¹.

Key Features Users Want Back

1. Timeline

The Timeline feature allowed users to resume past activities across multiple devices. Its removal has left many users feeling less productive and disconnected from their workflow.

2. Cortana Integration

Cortana, once a central part of the Windows experience, has seen a significant reduction in functionality. Users miss the robust voice assistant capabilities that were previously available.

3. Custom Accent Colors

Windows 11’s limited customization options for accent colors have left users yearning for the more personalized experience offered in previous versions.

4. Drag and Drop on Taskbar

The ability to drag and drop files onto taskbar icons was a convenient feature that streamlined workflow. Its absence in Windows 11 has been a notable inconvenience for many users.

5. Full Control Panel Access

The transition to the Settings app has left many users missing the comprehensive control and familiarity of the traditional Control Panel.

User Feedback and Microsoft’s Response

The Feedback Hub has become a central platform for users to voice their concerns and requests. Despite the overwhelming number of votes for the return of these features, Microsoft has yet to officially address these requests. Users continue to hope that future updates will reintegrate these much-missed functionalities.

Conclusion

The persistent demand for the return of these features underscores their importance to the user experience. As Windows 11 continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Microsoft will heed these calls and reintegrate these beloved features. For now, users await future updates with cautious optimism.

References

1. (June 14, 2025). “Windows 11 users want these five features back”. BleepingComputer. Retrieved June 14, 2025. ↩︎