Changes in Windows 11: The Deprecation of Location History
As we advance through 2025, there has been a noticeable slowdown in the removal of features within Windows 11. Following significant changes in 2023 and 2024, Microsoft is now beginning to phase out some functionalities, starting with the cessation of the Location History feature.
Overview of Location History Feature
Location History, previously utilized in Windows 11, was designed to gather and maintain records of your device’s location over the last 24 hours. This capability was enabled through an API, which allowed applications like Cortana and other compatible services to access stored location data without the necessity of tracking new positions. This API had a limitation, accommodating a maximum of 3, 600 positions, enabling users to receive personalized information, location-based reminders, and recommendations.
Official Announcement from Microsoft
Microsoft has officially declared the discontinuation of the Location History feature in their latest preview builds available for Dev and Beta insiders. Here is the statement from the company:
We are deprecating and removing the Location History feature, an API that allowed Cortana to access 24 hours of device history when location was enabled. With the removal of the Location History feature, location data will no longer be saved locally and the corresponding settings will also be removed from the Privacy & Security > Location page in Settings.
Current Access and User Impact
At present, users can still find the Location History and associated options under Settings > Privacy & Security > Location. It’s important to note that this modification does not affect the ongoing functionality of Windows 11 in accessing device location data to provide relevant services; the primary change is the cessation of local data storage.
Other Deprecated Features
In addition to Location History, several other features have also been deprecated. Notably among them is Suggested Actions, which, despite its usefulness, appears to have seen limited user engagement. Other removed features include Paint3D and Legacy DRM services. A comprehensive inventory of deprecated Windows features can be found in the official documentation here.
For further information on this matter, you can refer to the original announcement Source & Images.
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