I believe FR removed them to save costs in terms of fitting and maintenance. I had thought they'd stopped doing it as it didn't actually save money. Last time I flew FR it had blinds but I don't know if it was old or new.
I know that the removal of the eye brow windows up front save money but can't imagine no window shades saves money. I can't imagine they weight much it need much maintenance and I can't imagine the I may plastic needs much maintenance.