🧰 Windows 11 25H2 Cleans House: Native App Uninstall Feature Finally Arrives
For years, Windows users have asked for a faster, cleaner operating system that doesn’t feel bogged down by unused pre-installed apps. With the upcoming 25H2 release, Microsoft is finally delivering—a native option to remove many default Microsoft Store apps, no scripting or third-party utilities required.
🛠️ What's Changing with 25H2?
At the heart of this update is a new group policy option that lets users easily remove built-in apps that were previously welded into the operating system. This move signals a major shift in how Microsoft approaches user customization. By making decluttering straightforward, users can create a leaner system that's better optimized for their individual needs.
Here's a list of apps you can now uninstall:
Feedback Hub
Microsoft 365 Copilot
Microsoft Clipchamp
Microsoft News
Microsoft Photos
Microsoft Solitaire Collection
Microsoft Sticky Notes
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft To Do
MSN Weather
Outlook for Windows
Paint
Quick Assist
Snipping Tool
Windows Calculator
Windows Camera
Windows Media Player
Windows Notepad
Windows Sound Recorder
Windows Terminal
Xbox Gaming App
Xbox Gaming Overlay
Xbox Identity Provider
Xbox Speech To Text Overlay
Xbox TCUI
Microsoft’s inclusion of even newer features like Copilot and Xbox overlays shows they’re serious about giving users full control over their setup.
👨‍💼 Who Can Use It?
Currently, this new feature is available in the Windows Insider Dev Channel as part of the testing phase. It’s slated for full release with Windows 11 25H2 later in 2025. Microsoft hasn’t confirmed whether it’ll be available to Home edition users, but widespread demand makes it a likely candidate for broader availability.
A small caveat: even if you remove the apps, some shortcuts might stick around in the Start menu. It’s a minor nuisance, but one worth flagging.
đź’ Why This Update Matters
Until now, removing built-in apps meant using PowerShell scripts or downloading external tools—tricks mostly reserved for tech-savvy users. By integrating these controls natively, Microsoft is taking a more user-first approach.
It’s a bold shift that reflects:
A growing respect for user autonomy
An understanding of minimalist system setups
A focus on performance and personalization
Whether you're prepping a fleet of office PCs or just want your laptop to feel less like a showroom demo, Windows 11 25H2 gives you the tools to shape your experience—and it's about time.
Windows 11 Home x64
GPT partitioned for UEFI Bios
No TPM/Secure Boot requirement
3 hard drive sizes available
Plug & Play. Install hard drive and adjust boot drive in BIOS (if required)
Setup screen will appear, select your preferences and you have a new copy of Windows on a lightning fast SSD drive!