Microsoft may be replacing the Windows 10 control panel

Windows 10 has been out for a few months and for the most part, people seem to like it. However, at the moment there are two systems for changing system settings, the classic control panel that we've grown familiar with over the years and the new ‘Settings' menu. Now as things progress, it looks like Microsoft may be looking to phase out the control panel entirely and move on to the settings menu.

In response to a question on Twitter, in which Gabe Aul was asked: “Why do Control Panel and “Settings” exist? Why not just Control Panel? Why is Control Panel semi-replaced? What's wrong w/ it?”, Microsoft's Senior Program Manager, Brandon LeBlanc said: “Settings will eventually supersede Control Panel. Some stuff not moved over. But haven't had to use CP in months.”

On the left: Control Panel. On the right: Settings. 

Eventually, Gabe Aul himself also replied, confirming that Microsoft's Windows team wants to cut down to one system settings interface: “Having two separate implementations means more code complexity and disk/mem usage. Getting to one is leaner”.

The new settings menu contains the same functions as the control panel, though it has an updated look. However, there has been significant backlash to some of Microsoft's UI changes in the past so it will be interesting to see how people react to this latest news.

KitGuru Says: Personally, I rarely use the control panel these days. However, I find it much easier to use if I want to go and uninstall a program or get to my sound settings. With control panel sat there already, I don't really see any reason to take it out but then again, I'm not an operating system developer, so I wouldn't know much about the challenges involved. How would you feel if Microsoft removed the control panel? Do you still use it regularly over the new Settings menu? 

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