Microsoft had been testing a PC-to-PC migration feature within the Windows Backup application since July 2025. This feature allowed users to connect their old computer to a new one and transfer files and settings directly between the two devices. According to the changelog of the latest Release Preview versions, as noted by Neowin, this migration option is no longer available, with no explanation provided. Previously, the feature included a pairing page where users connected the two machines, verified the connection with a code to prevent errors, and then selected the data to transfer. The PC-to-PC migration function was used as a tool to encourage users to transition from Windows 10, which reached its end of support in October 2025. The idea was to make switching to Windows 11 as seamless as possible, especially for those who had been hesitant to upgrade. However, Microsoft is now moving away from local solutions in favor of cloud-based methods. Instead of using the direct PC-to-PC transfer, users are now directed to use the classic Windows Backup feature, which requires a Microsoft account and transfers files, settings, and credentials through the cloud. Previously, the migration function worked over a local network, without sending data through the cloud. This made it the most privacy-friendly option, which is now being phased out. Microsoft has made this shift before—Windows Easy Transfer, introduced with Windows Vista and available until Windows 8.1, allowed users to copy files and settings between PCs via a network or a cable. However, this feature was removed with Windows 10, and users were redirected to use OneDrive for data transfer. This same trend is continuing today. The PC-to-PC migration is not the only feature being removed. In August 2026, Microsoft also removed the Drop Tray, a file-sharing bar that appeared at the top of the screen. It was criticized by testers for being too intrusive. These two features followed a similar path—they were available in the Windows Insiders program, the public testing platform for the operating system, for over a year before being removed without ever being released to the general public. For users preparing to switch to a new PC, the official method now requires using Windows Backup with a Microsoft account and the cloud as a necessary step. Those who prefer a local transfer, without relying on an online account, will need to resort to manual copying or third-party software. Microsoft has not indicated whether it plans to reintroduce a local migration option in the future.