Since a 16bit app usually cannot execute such a 32bit function you may assume it's meant to keep support for ini stuff where the registry is favourite.
So it can not mean, "we are about to remove these functions".
I know at least one situation where an ini fill is required to fulfill the (Windows) task.
Even if these functions would be removed it's pretty easy to write your own parsing code.
But Windows is optimized for this task with regard to multiuser and speed (cache).
BTW, the full folder was a thing present since Windows 3.1.. and i can know

If no folder, the Windows folder as used (as mentioned above)
Leave a comment: