Windows 11 disables certain File Explorer features for European users to comply with GDPR

Microsoft is now turning off certain features in File Explorer, like showing recent or recommended files, for users in the European Union, likely to comply with the region’s GDPR law.

Two recently launched Windows 11 beta updates, the KB5052086 for the 24H2 version and the KB5052094 for 23H2, revealed an interesting change. Now, Microsoft is disabling features related to account-based content in File Explorer for users with Entra IDs (Microsoft’s identity and access management service) for users in the EU.

The affected features are Recent, Favorites, Details Pane, and Recommended, which all usually appear when you use File Explorer and interact with your files. These features rely on personal data, such as recent activity or preferences, to show suggestions or information about your files.

It does sound like a trivial change indeed, but it’s a part of Microsoft’s effort to comply with the GDPR.

The GDPR, or the General Data Protection Regulation, is a European Union law designed to protect the privacy and personal data of EU citizens. It places strict requirements on how companies (and Big Tech, in this matter) handle personal data, including how it’s collected, stored, processed, and shared.

“Microsoft is committed to its own compliance with the GDPR, as well as to provide an array of products, features, documentation, and resources to support our customers in meeting their compliance obligations under the GDPR,” the Redmond tech giant promises.

In related updates, Microsoft is also revamping the improved Windows Search on Copilot+ PCs, adding natural language search support and fixing issues like unresponsive search boxes, animations, and incorrect tips.

It also makes the controversial Recall feature with easier filter management and snapshot deletion in the next update.