Native Windows apps are more similar to progressive web apps on Windows. Developers can now modify the title bar of their PWAs thanks to a new feature announced by Microsoft.

It used to be that web apps didn't have access to this feature, which could lead to empty space, clashing colors, and other strange quirks. Developers should be helped by the new feature. The buttons in the top-right corner of the app window are still off limits.

Microsoft senior program manager Patrick Brosset wrote in a post that the installed desktop web apps are starting to look and feel like native apps. Web apps have been forced to go with the default experience, making them visually different, because native apps have been able to display content anywhere in the app window. The availability of a new PWA feature that closes this gap and helps blur the line between apps and websites is exciting.

A screenshot of the Todoist progressive web app on Windows.
Yes, I did download the Todoist PWA just to take this screenshot.

It isn't shocking to anyone who uses PWAs. The feature was first proposed by Microsoft in January 2020. In April, a feature called the Window Controls Overlay was added to the browser, and in August it became part of the browser. It seems like this new look for web apps may become widespread with the support of Chrome and Edge.

We think they are a good fit for making desktop applications. If you want to turn your website into an app that really feels like it belongs on desktop, you can use the Window Controls Overlay feature, which will help you create desktop apps that look more modern and engaging to your users.

The MDN reference documents can be read by those interested in learning more. Instructions for how to opt in to the feature are included in the post.