Massive PowerToys update introduces new "Windows Hopper" tool and major enhancements

Massive PowerToys update introduces new "Windows Hopper" tool and major enhancements by Usama Jawad PowerToys is arguably one of the best Windows customization tools out there, and it receives regular updates bringing enhancements and bug fixes. However, PowerToys has now received a huge update that brings not only a new tool, but also tons of other major enhancements. Version 0.101 of PowerToys is now out, and its highlight is the introduction of a new tool in the form of Windows Hopper. As the name implies, it allows you to hop within different windows. You would think that this is quite similar to the native Alt + Tab functionality in Windows, and you wouldn't be far off. However, the way it distinguishes itself from that while also making itself useful for some use-cases is that it allows users to hop between different windows of the same application. So, if you have multiple instances of File Explorer open, you can switch between them using the configurable Alt + backtick (`) shortcut key. Next, Microsoft has streamlined the PowerToys updates mechanism in the Settings section. Users can navigate to Settings > General > Update channel to switch between Stable and Insider, the former of which is the default. The company has also made some UX improvements so that preview builds are distinctly labeled and preview updates for managed devices can be controlled via the organization. The update experience itself has also been revamped so it tracks and specifies each step of the process clearly. Meanwhile, Command Palette now sports a compact mode (off by default) that only expands enough to show matching results as you begin typing. You can also use the Down arrow or Tab key to expand the UX, while it automatically expands for search results which require detail. Other enhancements made to Command Palette include: Search and responsiveness: Better ranking, cached Window Walker results, and progressive icon loading make results feel faster and more predictable. Reliability: Improved backdrop switching, icon loading, dock cleanup, and extension-resource management make prolonged use more stable. Dock improvements: Auto-hide reclaims screen space, while the dock clock and an optional bell provide quick access to Notification Center. Richer notifications: Extensions can show toasts with configurable positions, icons, and action buttons. Performance Monitor: New disk activity metrics and clearer network bands make it easier to keep an eye on system performance. Extension Gallery: Deep links can open the gallery or take you directly to a specific extension's installation page. Windows Update commands: Update and restart and Update and shut down appear when Windows is waiting for a reboot. Microsoft is also continuing with its modernization of PowerToys. In this release, Quick Accent and Mouse Jump have been migrated to WinUI 3, which brings tons of UI and UX improvements. Meanwhile, the PowerDisplay utility can leverage the new linked brightness feature to control the brightness of several monitors simultaneously. This is particularly useful for those with multi-monitor setups. Other highlights of this PowerToys update include support for local AI in Advanced Paste, the addition of Windows key activation in Shortcut Guide, DemoMirror, webcam background blur, microphone noise cancellation, and brightness controls for recording in ZoomIt, and a Ripple mode in Mouse Highlighter. While our news piece for this PowerToys update may sound lengthy enough on its own, we have only scratched the surface when it comes to the dozens of improvements, bug fixes, and new features in this release. You can find out more details about PowerToys v0.101.2362.0 on GitHub here.