Changing Direct Query to Import Storage Mode

Hi jmerencilla ,

This prompt is a limitation.

Limitations when downloading a semantic model .pbix file

There are no other actions done that resulted in this behavior. In fact, I created a blank PBI, connect it to the semantic model, and automatically, it is disabled. I am not able to change. 

I am unable to reproduce this step of yours.
I am using the latest version of PBI Desktop.
After connecting to the semantic model (Direct Query) on Service, I have to click "Make Changes to this mode" before I see the storage mode disabled.

According to Microsoft documentation.
Connect to semantic models in the Power BI service from Power BI Desktop - Power BI | Microsoft Learn
The connection mode used when connecting to a semantic model in Service in Power Bi Desktop is a live connection.

Then, after changing the connection mode to Direct Query by “Make changes to this model”, you can't change to Import mode, which is a limitation.
Solved: PowerBI dataset in import storage mode instead of ... - Microsoft Fabric Community
Solved: Cannot convert from DirectQuery to Import mode - Microsoft Fabric Community

Alternatively, if you have the datasource credentials for the semantic model, then you can bypass the restriction by downloading the semantic model via xmla endpoint and then converting it to Import.
Creating PBIX File from XMLA Endpoint. | Tabular Editor Documentation

Best Regards,
Dengliang Li

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