Microsoft has revamped some of the preloaded apps in Windows 11, including the Snipping Tool, Calculator, Mail, and Calendar apps. You can try the update yourself if you're a part of Windows Insiders' Dev Channel.
Windows 11 Apps Get a Sleek New Look
In a post on the Windows Blog, Microsoft gave readers a sneak peek at what the updated Windows 11 apps will look like.
For one, Microsoft is tossing out the classic Snip & Sketch and Snipping Tool, and replacing both with a redesigned version of the Snipping Tool. According to Microsoft, the updated app "represents the best experience of both apps."
The Snipping Tool will let you use the Win + Shift + S keyboard shortcut to take screenshots, which might be second nature if you already use that with the Snip & Sketch tool.
It comes with a settings page, and several new options for taking screenshots: Rectangular Snip, Freeform Snip, Windows Snip, and Fullscreen Snip. You're also free to annotate your screenshots, as well as take advantage of the improved cropping tools.
You can also set the Snipping Tool's theme separately from that of Windows. This means you can toggle on dark mode without affecting the rest of your apps.
Fans of Windows' preloaded Mail and Calendar apps will be pleased, too. Not much has changed, except that both apps now have rounded corners that complement Window 11's new look. You can use dark mode with these apps as well, which is something that you're already able to do in Windows 10.
Lastly, the very useful Calculator app received a small adjustment to its appearance. Just like with the Snipping Tool, you'll be able to use it in dark mode. In addition, the app has been rewritten in C#, which means that more developers can make their own contributions on GitHub.
Windows 11's Launch Date Gets Closer
Rumor has it that Windows 11 is set to release in October 2021. If that pans out, we're barreling towards its launch date.
But if you still can't wait to try Windows 11 for yourself, sign up for the Windows Insider Program (if you haven't already). Signing up gives you exclusive access to Windows 11, as well as all of Windows' newest features.
Just keep in mind that if you're not in the Dev Channel, you won't get access to the updated Calculator, Snipping Tool, Mail, and Calendar apps just yet. There's no word on when Microsoft plans on releasing the update to all other testers.