PowerToys 0.90 released with a new CmdPal tool

Microsoft has released PowerToys 0.90 that features a new tool - CmdPal (stands for Command Palette). It is the new utility to launch apps, and install winget packages It features a more powerful calculator, bookmarks, and more. Consider it an evolved version of PowerToys Run.

CmdPal, the next-generation launcher integrated into PowerToys, offers a convenient and efficient way to manage tasks directly from a unified interface.

Designed with extensibility and ease of use in mind, it supports a wide range of functionalities, including searching for applications, files, or folders, executing system commands, performing calculations, and interacting with web resources.

The new module uses Win+Alt+Space as its default hotkey. As said, it supports extensions, so it capabilities can be greatly expanded over time.

Key features include seamless command execution using the > prefix. For example, typing > cmd opens the Command Prompt, while > Shell:startup provides quick access to the Windows startup folder. The integration of Window Walker allows users to switch between open windows effortlessly, ideal for multitasking environments.

CmdPal also includes a built-in calculator for quick math operations, supports bookmarking frequently visited webpages, and enables direct web searches or webpage navigation. Its support for rich extensions empowers users to customize and expand its capabilities, ensuring adaptability to individual workflows.

Here are the other changes included in PowerToys 0.90.

Changes in PowerToys 0.90

• • Color Picker: Replaced WPFUI with .NET WPF for improved compatibility and theme support.
  • Command Palette (CmdPal): Introduced as the next-gen PowerToys Run, offering enhanced extensibility with features like app, file, and winget package search.
  • FancyZones: Resolved bugs related to layout deletion, hotkey display, and missing "None" options in the editor.
  • Image Resizer: Fixed warnings about uninitialized variables for smoother operation.
  • Mouse Without Borders: Improved debugging with better logging and refactored classes for cleaner code.
  • New+: Added support for dynamic template filenames using date/time, folder names, and environment variables.
  • Peek: Enabled deletion of previewed files with proper navigation updates.
  • PowerToys Run: Fixed app duplication, round-corner crashes on Windows 11, and added sq support in the Unit Converter.
  • Settings: Disabled spell check in plugin text boxes and fixed InfoBar error displays with a retry button.
  • Workspaces: Fixed snapshot issues for minimized packaged apps like Microsoft ToDo and Settings.

Download PowerToys

You can download PowerToys from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. It is available for both Windows 11 and 10. The winget -s msstore powertoys command will also install the app suite on your computer. Finally, existing users will receive the new version automatically via the integrated updater app.