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Enhancing Windows with Microsoft PowerToys Update
The highly revered Microsoft PowerToys, a suite designed to augment the Windows user experience, has been updated to version 0.80.0. This update, available for download via GitHub or the Microsoft Store, brings a bevy of enhancements and rectifications.
Notably, the Peek utility now extends its support to include WebP and WebM formats, as well as audio files, streamlining the previewing process for a variety of media types. Users can now simply use a shortcut (default CTRL+SPACE) to instantly glance at supported files, without the need to open different applications, and the update also allows the use of winget to configure PowerToys settings seamlessly.
The Peek feature is a particular boon, facilitating the perusal of image, video, and audio previews with a solitary shortcut. Additionally, pressing an arrow key empowers users to navigate through file previews rapidly, ideal for swiftly assessing content.
Understanding WebP Files
WebP files, conceived with the intent of web optimization, came into existence thanks to Google in 2010. These files are integral in reducing website load times, outperforming JPEG files in compression by 25-34% according to Google’s studies. The support for WebP files has grown significantly, with major players like Apple’s Safari and a variety of Chromium-based browsers embracing the format.
Historically, a plugin was required for Photoshop compatibility with WebP files, but that necessity has been eliminated as most photo editing applications now natively support the format as of 2024. Despite this convenience, some users may find the need to convert WebP files into other formats an additional, unwelcome step in their workflow.
Key Improvements in PowerToys v0.80.0
- New features, such as Desired State Configuration support, have been introduced, allowing the use of winget to configure PowerToys.
- Updates to the Windows App SDK have resolved a number of underlying UI issues.
- Support for WebP/WebM files and audio files have been added to the Peek feature.
Detailed Change Log for PowerToys v0.80.0
The comprehensive change log for the latest PowerToys update encompasses a wide range of improvements across its various utilities:
- Quick Access has been introduced to the system tray icon’s right-click menu, and several UI testing features have been incorporated into the continuous integration process.
- Awake utility has been fixed to ensure the “Keep screen on” option remains active after deactivation.
- Color Picker has seen improvements to its UI, preventing partial hiding of the color bar.
- File Explorer add-ons have been refined with crash fixes and enhanced preview scaling.
- Keyboard Manager now accurately handles numpad keys within shortcuts and provides clearer instructions for translators.
- PowerToys Run has been enhanced with additional settings, better image handling, and improved plugin properties.
The update also tackles various issues across the board, including UI fixes, crash preventions, and feature enhancements that contribute to the overall robustness and user-friendliness of the PowerToys utilities.
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