PowerToys v0.90.0 surprises with Command Palette and many improvements

Microsoft continues to strengthen its utility collection for advanced users with a new version of PowerToys. With the launch of the version 0.90.0, the company has implemented a number of features designed to improve efficiency and customization within the Windows operating system.

This revision incorporates a featured tool called Command Palette, along with improvements to existing modules and multiple bug fixes. PowerToys, which has long been positioned as a must-have toolkit for those looking for more from their system, now receives a important push towards what appears to be an ever-closer version 1.0.

Command Palette: The new launcher arrives with a bang

The main novelty of this release is undoubtedly Command palette, a new module that acts as advanced alternative to PowerToys RunThis quick launcher lets you run applications, navigate between files, execute system commands, and even install packages using WinGet.

The Command Palette has been designed with a focus on extensibility and the performanceIt offers a clearer interface and additional options that promise to make daily interaction with Windows more comfortable. Quick access is done by using the key combination WIN + ALT + SPACEBAR, allowing actions to be executed almost instantly.

The developers behind this tool emphasize that it is easily expandable with external plugins and its operation is reminiscent of tools like Raycast, popular on other operating systems. Additionally, users will be able to search for programs by simply typing a few letters of their name, similar to Spotlight on macOS, but with more open options geared toward advanced tasks.

Improvements and changes to existing tools

Beyond the new launcher, PowerToys v0.90.0 brings with it significant improvements to modules that have been included in the set for some time. For example, the color selector or Color Picker has been updated to now use .NET WPF instead of classic WPF, which is a greater compatibility with Windows themes and better visual consistency.

For its part, Peek, the file preview tool, now allows you to delete files directly from the preview itself, providing greater agility to those who manage many documents or want to save themselves from opening folders or exploring paths.

In the module New+, intended for quick creation of files and directories with templates, have been added dynamic variables. This allows, for example, to include components such as the date or the name of the parent directory directly in the names, making the templates much more customizable.

Specific fixes and minor adjustments

As with every version, Microsoft has taken advantage of this release to adjust aspects that were not working as they should or that could be improved. Some of the Changes present in v0.90.0 include:

• Fancy Zones Fixes bugs associated with layout shortcut keys and the “None” option not being displayed in some cases.
• image Resizer fixes warnings related to uninitialized variables, such as "shellItem" or "itemName".
• En Mouse Without Borders, the route registration system has been improved to facilitate the depuration.
• Powertoys run Fixes issues with duplicate apps in search results and issues related to rounded corners on certain versions of Windows 11.
• It has also been added Support in this utility for units like “sq” (instead of “^2”) to make the unit converter easier to use.

In addition, they have been carried out more technical and maintenance tasks, such as library updates (.NET 9.0.3, CsWinRT 2.2.0, WindowsAppSDK 1.6), improvements to the automated testing system, and the implementation of instrumentation to measure performance when opening modules.

Minor configuration tweaks and internal improvements

Another aspect that has been polished in this version is the configuration and its interface. In PowerToys Run, for example, automatic spell checking has been disabled within text fields to avoid interference when typing commands or executable names quickly.

Errors in the configuration information messages (InfoBars) have also been fixed, and A retry button has been added for when these are not displayed correctly. In the Workspaces section, a bug that prevented taking a photo has been fixed. suitable snapshot from certain minimized apps like Microsoft To Do or Settings.

Third-party plugins and expanded documentation

Another positive aspect of this version is the addition and recognition of community-developed plugins. These include:

• Firefox Bookmark, which allows you to search for Firefox browser bookmarks directly from PowerToys Run.
• SVGL, to easily search, copy, and browse SVG logos.
• Use of Monaco editor in the Registry Preview module.

In addition, the project documentation continues to expand and The community has actively participated with new automated tests, design suggestions and compilation flow optimization to avoid common development pitfalls.

This new The release of PowerToys V0.90.0 reinforces its role as an essential tool for users seeking customization and efficiency in Windows.Whether you need a more powerful launcher or value small improvements spread across multiple areas of the system, this update brings something for almost everyone. You can download it directly from its GitHub page or update from the installed app by accessing the settings panel.