What is Microsoft's Command Palette Dock concept for Windows 11?

The Command Palette Dock is a proposed optional UI for Windows 11 by the PowerToys team, designed to offer quick access to tools and system resource monitoring, similar to top bars on Linux and macOS.

How configurable will the Windows 11 Command Palette Dock be?

The dock is designed to be highly configurable, allowing users to position it on any screen edge and customize its background, styling, and theme, as well as pin and reorder extensions.

Is the Command Palette Dock a replacement for the existing Command Palette launcher?

No, the Command Palette Dock is designed to complement Microsoft's existing Command Palette launcher, enhancing accessibility to commands and tools within Windows 11.

Home / Technology / Windows 11 Could Get a Linux-Style Command Dock

Windows 11 Could Get a Linux-Style Command Dock

30 Jan

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Summary

PowerToys team considering a top menu bar for Windows 11.
The dock offers quick access to tools and system resource monitoring.
Users can customize placement, styling, and pin extensions.

Windows 11 Could Get a Linux-Style Command Dock

Microsoft is contemplating the introduction of a new top menu bar for Windows 11, referred to as the Command Palette Dock, inspired by Linux and macOS interfaces. This feature, currently in the concept phase by the PowerToys team, aims to offer users swift access to various tools and system resource monitoring.

The proposed dock is designed with extensive customization in mind, allowing it to be placed on any screen edge—top, left, right, or bottom. Users will reportedly have control over its background, styling, and theme, along with the ability to pin and reorder extensions within distinct regions of the dock.

This development aligns with Microsoft's existing Command Palette launcher, which enhances app and command accessibility. The company is actively seeking user feedback on this potential addition to Windows 11, with early experimental versions available on their GitHub repository.