Microsoft Removes Tool From Windows 11 That Was ‘Rarely Used’

Microsoft has revealed plans to eliminate various longstanding applications from the Windows 11 operating system. Besides Wordpad, a specialized RTF editor, Microsoft has decided to get rid of the Steps Recorder tool.

Debuted with the introduction of Windows 7 in 2009, Steps Recorder, initially known as Problem Steps Recorder, is a simplistic recording tool that captures the user’s actions on the screen. The main goal of this tool was to automatically document issues for evidential or support purposes.

Even though Steps Recorder has been supported in recent Windows versions, it has not received significant updates for quite some time. Users can still access the application by initiating a search for “Steps Recorder” in the Start or Search menu.

The user interface is simple, offering limited options. Users have the ability to customize the output directory and the quantity of screen captures stored by the application. Recordings are saved as ZIP files containing an MHT document that opens in Microsoft Edge. Each step comprises a screenshot and automatically includes details such as window names and other user interactions. Users can also attach comments to give additional context to an action.

With the release of Windows 10 version 20H1, Steps Recorder was transitioned into an optional feature, alongside WordPad, Paint, Microsoft Quick Assist, and Microsoft Windows User Experience. While Paint and Quick Assist have received a temporary reprieve, WordPad and Steps Recorder face impending removal. These tools continue to be deprecated.

Deprecation and Removal of Steps Recorder

According to a support article on Microsoft’s official website, Steps Recorder is now deemed deprecated. Microsoft intends to roll out one final update to Steps Recorder in early 2024, along with a message informing users of the tool’s discontinuation.

The message displayed will convey: “This tool is being phased out. Click here to explore alternatives.” Clicking the link will redirect users to a support page, where Microsoft explains that this removal is consistent with its commitment to enhance and innovate the Windows experience.

By early 2024, Steps Recorder will exhibit a message alerting users of its deprecation, although Microsoft has not specified the exact date when the tool will be entirely eliminated from Windows. The company has confirmed that older Windows versions will continue to support Steps Recorder.

Microsoft-Recommended Substitutes for Steps Recorder

Microsoft has proposed three in-house solutions as alternatives to Steps Recorder:

• Snipping Tool, a screen capture and recording software. Microsoft recommends using the program’s screen recording feature to document system issues.
• Xbox Game Bar, which includes screen recording capabilities as well.
• ClipChamp, a video editing software that can also record the screen.

While all three tools offer screen recording functions, none of them automatically integrate user action details into the recordings. Additionally, there is no direct provision to include comments. While it may be possible to include voice recordings or utilize video editing software to add comments, these methods are less intuitive and definitely more time-consuming.

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