Microsoft recently revealed a comprehensive plan to improve Windows 11 that includes several long-requested features, like vertical taskbar orientation, less annoying Windows updates, improved file explorer speed, overall smoother performance, and more.

Somewhat surprisingly, given the pushback from some users, the tech giant didn't mention removing the requirement that you have a Microsoft Account to set up your Windows 11 PC, but that could soon change.

This isn't an official confirmation, but it's a hint that something could be coming.

Microsoft hears your complaints

However, while Microsoft hasn't revealed anything official about plans to allow users to bypass the sometimes-annoying sign-in requirement, Scott Hanselmann, a Microsoft Vice President working on the tech giant's plan, hinted that the change could be on the way (via Neowin).

In a recent reply on X to a user who asked about removing Windows 11's Microsoft account requirement, Hanselmann said that he "hate[s]" the feature and that he's "working on it." Though this is far from confirmation that local profiles are returning to Microsoft's operating system, it's a positive sign.

Given the change in tone at Microsoft regarding listening more closely to its more dedicated users, I wouldn't be surprised if a local profile option made its way to Windows 11 in the near future. Back in October 2025, Microsoft was actively patching known workarounds that let users get local counts up and running on Windows 11, allowing them to dodge the sign-in requirement.