Windows 11 is on the brink of a significant enhancement with the potential integration of Winget into PowerToys Run, a robust alternative to the traditional Windows Search. This development promises to streamline the app installation process, allowing users to download applications directly through a simple keyboard shortcut.
As highlighted by Kayla Cinnamon, a senior product manager at Microsoft for PowerToys, the company is currently testing a new plugin that will enable users to search for apps hosted on Winget directly within PowerToys Run. This feature is reminiscent of macOS Spotlight, known for its efficiency and support for various extensions and plugins.
With this upcoming functionality, users will be able to enter the package name after pressing Alt + Space, eliminating the need to navigate through the Microsoft Store or external websites. Instead of the traditional route of downloading installers and wading through installation wizards, a straightforward search will yield an Install button right within the PowerToys Run interface.
While Microsoft has not disclosed extensive details, the anticipation surrounding this feature suggests a strategic move to generate excitement among users. Speculations abound regarding the potential for batch installations and automatic updates, further enhancing the user experience.
PowerToys to support built-in transcode feature for audio and video files on Windows 11
In addition to the Winget integration, PowerToys is set to introduce a built-in transcoding feature for audio and video files. This new capability aims to simplify the conversion process for various file formats, such as .mp3 and .mp4, without the complexity of a full-fledged encoding tool.
Users will also have the ability to extract audio from video files and convert it into their desired format. The focus is on maintaining original quality while providing more options for users.
What sets this feature apart is its incorporation of “natural language” processing. Users can simply type commands like “transcode this file into .mp3”, and PowerToys will execute the task seamlessly, thanks to its AI-driven understanding of natural language.
The excitement surrounding these new features raises questions about future enhancements to PowerToys and their integration into Windows 11. Users are encouraged to share their thoughts on which features they would like to see next, fostering a community dialogue around these innovative tools.
