Microsoft is updating PowerToys for Windows, adding new UI features for Windows 11, a universal conference mute and a find your mouse feature. Microsoft has been improving PowerToys in preparation for Windows 11's launch. The settings interface was updated to better match the OS, and PowerRename now supports design changes that better reflect the Windows 11 design.
PowerRename is a tool that makes it easier to rename files. It no longer looks like the Windows 7 dialog box. Microsoft has updated PowerRename to have a more modern interface and make it easier for users to search for options for bulk renaming files.
PowerToys Rename: Old vs. New UI Go get it now in #PowerToys 0.49.. https://t.co/x7xLB6YZyg pic.twitter.com/YjIL2vavfZ Niels Laute (@Niels9001) October 28, 2021
PowerToys will also get two new features in this 0.49 update. Video Conference Mute is now available in this version. This feature allows you to disable your webcam worldwide across Windows 10 and Windows 11.
You can assign Video Conference Mute as a keyboard shortcut and select the microphone or webcam you wish to disable. A toolbar appears whenever a microphone or webcam is active. Microsoft had planned to launch Windows 11 with a universal microphone mute function, but it didn't happen. It should come at some point in future.
Find My Mouse is the second feature. It will allow you to find your cursor using the mouse's location. Windows has provided support for finding a mouse cursor for many years. However, this new feature is far more effective. Simply tap CTRL twice to dim your screen and a spotlight will illuminate the cursor. This is useful for large displays with high resolution.
The latest 0.49 version of Microsoft's PowerToys GitHub includes both the new PowerToys features. PowerToys includes many other utilities such as FancyZones that improve layouts and multitasking, a feature to keep your computer awake, and a PowerToys Launcher.
