While Build is not usually a place for Windows 10 updates, Microsoft had some improvements ready for Build 2021 today. While Windows 10 May 2021 Update is now rolling out, Microsoft used Build to discuss improvements for Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), Windows Search, and Windows Terminal.
Windows Subsystem for Linux
Starting with WSL 2.0, Microsoft says the service now supports Linux Graphical user Interface (GUI) applications. With this feature, users can now host GUI apps out of the box on WSL without needing to set up a virtual machine.
WSL 2 is Microsoft's latest version of the service that allows Linux distros to function within Windows. Distribution can run the original WSL or the updated second version, and users can switch when they want.
Windows Search
Microsoft is making a useful change to search on Windows 10. Specifically, commercial customers will soon be able to get personalized search results from enterprise applications. It is worth noting Windows Search already gives users the ability to find apps, files, and web info. Coming soon is the added ability to get more information from services like Salesforce.
Windows Terminal 1.9
Microsoft continues to roll out consistent Windows Terminal updates, making the command replacement more mature. At Build 2021, the company revealed Windows Terminal 1.9. Leading the changes with this latest update is a feature known as Quake Mode.
Quake Mode makes it easier for users to quickly open a terminal window from anywhere in Windows 10. This happens through a keyboard shortcut.
Windows Terminal is a new command prompt experience for Windows 10. Developers can leverage multiple tabs and customize the experience with themes. On that latter front, you'll need to edit a JSON file to access the full suite of customization tools.
