Skip to main content

This change to Alt + Tab in Windows 11 is making people very happy

Microsoft is testing a key change to the multitasking system in Windows 11 that many people are likely to appreciate. In the latest Windows Insider Dev Channel release, the company is tweaking the Alt + Tab experience so that it is no longer full-screen.

According to Microsoft, this change is currently an experiment only with select users. It changes things up so that when you want to switch between one of your open apps with Alt + Tab and go to another app, you’ll no longer get a full-screen blurred effect.

The Windows 11 Multitasking Experience.
Brandon LeBlanc/ Microsoft

This effect has been distracting for some people, as it could hide an open app and content being worked on. Based on feedback, the new experience is a lot cleaner. It keeps the background in focus and shows all open apps on top of a thin strip bar.

Microsoft is looking for feedback on the experience, and so far, the reaction has been very positive. Windows fans appreciate the care put into the feature. Other commenters indicate that even though they’re not included in the test, the change is much preferred over the existing layout.

Because Windows 11 Dev Channel builds are not linked to a specific release, this experience might not make it to the next version of Windows 11, which should be coming at the end of this year. It is, though, a high possibility. Microsoft has tested a lot of Windows 11 improvements in the Dev Channel since the operating system first launched.

The list includes a new voice access experience, new ways to set a default web browser, and an improved Start Menu with more ways to change recommendations. Some other changes like an improved media player and new editing controls in the Photos app also have also rolled out past the Dev channel and to all Windows 11 users.

According to rumors, Microsoft is looking to focus on cleaning up the dark mode in Windows 11, as well as opening up the Windows 11 widgets feature so that third-party developers can integrate with their own cards. Paired with partner Qualcomm, even Windows ARM devices are said to be a focus for Microsoft this year, perhaps as a response to Apple’s M1 MacBooks and devices.

Arif Bacchus
Arif Bacchus is a native New Yorker and a fan of all things technology. Arif works as a freelance writer at Digital Trends…
The Windows Copilot puts Bing Chat in every Windows 11 computer
Copilot in Windows being used in the side panel.

Announced at Microsoft Build 2023, Windows will now have its own dedicated AI "copilot" that can be docked right into a side panel that can stay persistent while using other applications and aspects of the operating system.

Microsoft has been highly invested in AI over these recent months, and it was only a matter of time before it came to Windows. The time is now -- and it's coming in a big way.

Read more
Windows 11 just gained one of the primary reasons to buy a Mac
The Phone Link app being used on a phone and laptop screen.

The Apple ecosystem is the reason many people flock to the Mac over Windows devices. They already own an iPhone, so buying a Mac that works easily with it seems like an obvious next step.

Now, however, the highly requested Phone Link app for Windows 11 finally supports iPhone, finally making some of those ecosystem features a bit more cross-platform. The update to the app was announced in late April but is available to use today.

Read more
Windows 11 is finally going to play nice with your iPhone
Phone Link for iOS will be available for Windows 11 starting in mid-May.

Microsoft will soon begin support for iPhones on its Phone Link app in Windows 11.

The brand announced on its blog Wednesday that it will begin its global rollout of Microsoft Phone Link for iOS in 39 languages across 85 markets in mid-May. This support will allow iPhone users to make and receive phone calls, send and receive text messages, view notifications, and access contacts directly on their PCs.

Read more