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Introduction: A Long-Awaited Feature for Windows Users
Windows has long been known for bundling default applications with every fresh installation. While some of these apps are genuinely helpful—like the Snipping Tool, Calculator, or Notepad—many users often find themselves frustrated with bloatware like Xbox Game Bar or News apps that clutter their system. Until now, removing these built-in apps required workarounds or third-party tools. However, Microsoft is finally taking a step forward with a new system policy that allows users to selectively uninstall pre-installed Microsoft Store apps. Let’s explore what this new feature offers, its limitations, and what it means for future Windows customization.
Streamlined App Removal in Windows 11 Dev Build 26200.5670
Microsoft has introduced a powerful new policy in the Windows 11 Dev Build 26200.5670, named “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages from the system”. This feature, found under the Administrative Templates section of Group Policy, is a step towards greater user control over system bloat. It allows users to select and remove a comprehensive list of default apps pre-installed via the Microsoft Store.
The list includes:
Utility and productivity tools like Sticky Notes, To Do, Paint, Calculator, Notepad, and Snipping Tool
Communication and collaboration apps such as Microsoft Teams and Outlook for Windows
Entertainment options including Xbox apps, Solitaire, Media Player, and News
System utilities like Feedback Hub, Quick Assist, and Sound Recorder
Background apps (marked with an asterisk) like Xbox Identity Provider and Speech To Text Overlay
Core functional apps (marked with double asterisks) such as Microsoft Photos, Camera, and Windows Media Player
While the removal of some core apps won’t break the OS, Microsoft warns users to install suitable alternatives to retain essential functionality like viewing images or recording sound.
To remove these apps, users simply enable the new policy, tick the apps they wish to uninstall, and apply the changes. Unfortunately, during initial testing, the policy did not seem to take effect immediately—none of the apps were removed after enabling the feature. This suggests the policy is still in a developmental phase and may require further tweaks before becoming fully functional.
Despite its buggy first appearance, the introduction of this policy is a promising shift. It raises broader questions about Windows usability and why Microsoft has not yet implemented a multi-select uninstall feature directly within the system’s Settings. A native tool allowing bulk app removal could save users from unnecessary hassle and enhance the overall user experience significantly.
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User-Centric Customization Takes Center Stage
Microsoft’s move to empower users with more control over their OS configuration represents a significant step toward a more modular Windows experience. For years, users have criticized the inability to remove apps that feel unnecessary or unwanted, often turning to command-line utilities or third-party bloatware removers. With this new policy, Microsoft acknowledges the demand for a cleaner, personalized system environment.
A Deeper Look at App Classification
The differentiation between headless and critical apps shows that Microsoft is taking care to ensure users don’t accidentally cripple essential functionality. Headless apps, mostly related to Xbox integration, can be safely removed without affecting user-facing features. In contrast, apps like Photos, Notepad, or Camera serve as foundational tools, even if they’re replaceable. This nuance is important in preventing accidental removal of vital system capabilities.
Policy vs Practicality
The main flaw currently is that the policy, while visible and customizable, doesn’t yet perform the intended uninstalls. This suggests either a bug or incomplete backend integration. For an enterprise or power user who wants to configure corporate systems or streamline deployments, this adds frustration. If the feature eventually works as intended, it will significantly reduce the time and complexity involved in customizing Windows setups.
Why Edge Is Still Untouchable
One glaring omission from the list is Microsoft Edge. Despite user demand, Edge remains deeply integrated into Windows and is immune to this new policy. This suggests that while Microsoft is willing to allow some degree of control, core branding and revenue-generating tools remain protected. It highlights the ongoing tension between open customization and corporate strategy.
The Future of App Management
This policy could be a harbinger of broader changes. The ability to control app installations and removals centrally through policies aligns with enterprise deployment tools and user autonomy trends. If Microsoft integrates this with the Windows Settings interface and adds a graphical multi-select uninstall tool, it could mark a revolutionary step in user-first design. More importantly, it could reduce reliance on registry hacks or PowerShell scripts.
UX and Digital Hygiene
Having fewer unnecessary apps on a system
🔍 Fact Checker Results
✅ The “Remove Default Microsoft Store packages from the system” policy is available in Windows 11 Dev Build 26200.5670
❌ The policy currently does not successfully remove apps upon activation
✅ Microsoft Edge is excluded from the removable apps list, as it remains core to the OS
📊 Prediction
Microsoft is likely to refine this new policy and roll out a stable version by the time Windows 11 25H2 reaches general availability. We expect it will eventually integrate with a graphical multi-app uninstaller, either through Group Policy or directly within Settings. Edge will likely remain non-removable, but other core apps might soon become optional, making Windows 11 more modular than ever before. 🌐🧩💻
References:
Reported By: www.windowslatest.com
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