Microsoft has introduced the 0.84 version of its PowerToys utility suite, featuring a new “Workspaces” function designed to enhance productivity. The feature lets users launch and arrange several apps with just one click, simplifying tasks for Windows 10 and 11 users.
Boosting Workflow with Workspaces
The key highlight in this update is the “Workspaces” feature. It enables users to set up customized templates to open multiple applications at once. The templates can be saved and accessed from the Workspaces Editor or via a desktop shortcut, facilitating easier management of intricate workflows. Workspaces Editor also allows various customizations like command-line arguments, “launch as admin” settings, and adjustments in window size and positioning.
Microsoft plans to add two new modules soon: File Actions Menu and New+. The File Actions Menu will enhance the context menu options for selected files, including functionalities such as checksum generation, moving or copying files, and creating new folders. This module has been under development since February and is anticipated for release shortly.
The New+ module aims to streamline Windows 11's context menus by allowing the creation of file and folder templates. Examples include templates for “Documents,” “Job Applications,” and “Daily To-Do Lists,” to enable quick access to regularly used setups.
Additional Enhancements in PowerToys 0.84
The newest update also incorporates various other improvements. The Advanced Paste utility now permits custom actions with user-defined AI prompts, and actions can be searched from the prompt box. Shortcuts using Ctrl + number are usable for the first nine search results within the app.
Other updates include:
- Added DSC support for resizing properties in ImageResizer.
- A –use-parent-pid CLI argument to link to the parent process in Awake.
- Addressed save failures in the Hosts File Editor for hidden hosts files.
- Corrected multiple preview form positioning issues in File Explorer Add-ons.
- Enhanced default web browser detection and volume ounces conversion accuracy in PowerToys Run.
- Added support for multiple measurements in Screen Ruler's measuring tools.
- Improved InfoBar for disabled animations on the Find My Mouse settings page.
On the development front, all C++/CX code is now ported to C++/WinRT, dependencies have been updated, and self-containment properties have been moved to separate files. For a comprehensive look at the latest features and updates, users can visit the official PowerToys GitHub repository.
