Why has this 3D-printing option appeared?
QThe other day I right-clicked on a file, intending to select the Copy command, when I noticed a command labelled ‘3D Print with 3D Builder’. I have no idea what this is but I don’t remember seeing it before. Weirdly, it doesn’t appear every time I right-click. I’ve read your many warnings about potentially unwanted programs ( PUPS), and I’m wondering if this is related to something like that? I daren’t click on it, but I would like to know what it is and how to remove it. Can you offer an explanation? Chris Curtis
AThis is not a PUP but a feature that Microsoft added to Windows 10 with last year’s Anniversary Update. The app, called 3D Builder, is not new but this is the first time Microsoft has added it as an option to the right-click menu. However, it appears only when relevant file types, such as images, are clicked (see screenshot above). That explains why you don’t see it every time — and probably why you have not noticed the option until now.
That’s really all there is to it, and there’s nothing to worry about. But uninstalling 3D Builder should also remove the offending option on your right-click menu. Click Start, right-click 3D Builder in the apps list and then click Uninstall, and then confirm by clicking Uninstall again (see screenshot above). Now restart your PC.