In the ever-evolving landscape of Windows, the introduction of Windows 11 brought with it an array of new features designed to enhance user experience and productivity. One such notable addition is the “Snap windows” functionality. This feature, as its name suggests, is specifically curated for users who often find themselves multitasking across various applications. With Snap windows, gone are the days of manually resizing and repositioning windows to fit the screen efficiently. Instead, when users hover their mouse over the Maximize button of any active window, they are presented with an array of snap options. This allows them to systematically align all active applications on their screen in a manner that best suits their workflow.
However, this new layout brings with it another interesting aspect. Once the applications are arranged using Snap windows, any attempt to switch between them using the familiar Alt+Tab hotkey will reveal not just the individual applications but also the distinct snapped layouts. This can be particularly useful for those who wish to navigate between different layouts swiftly. But for users who find this feature cumbersome, Windows 11 offers the flexibility to modify this behavior. Whether through the straightforward Settings app or the more intricate Registry Editor, users have the autonomy to customize their Alt+Tab experience.
Furthermore, Microsoft has enriched the snap experience for users with smaller screens by providing a set of four snap layouts. Keyboard aficionados can easily invoke these layouts using the Win+Z shortcut. Another subtle enhancement introduced in Windows 11 build 22523 is the ability to view snap groups in both Alt+Tab and Task View. This becomes particularly evident when users hover over open apps on the taskbar, making navigation more intuitive.
In the following segments of this risewindows guide, we’ll delve deep into the steps required to either showcase or conceal Snap Windows on Alt+Tab and Task View in Windows 11. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or someone exploring the nuances of Windows 11, this guide aims to simplify the process for you.
How to Turn On or Off Show Snap Windows on Alt+Tab and Task View using Windows 11 Settings?
To enable or disable Snapped windows when you hover Taskbar apps or Task View through Windows 11 Settings, perform these steps:-
Step 1. Firstly, open Windows 11 Settings.
Step 2. Now, click on System in the left pane.
Step 3. Then, click on the Multitasking tile on the right pane.
Step 4. After that, expand Snap windows by clicking on it.
Step 5. Next, uncheck the option “Show my snapped windows when I hover over taskbar apps, in Task View, and when I press Alt+Tab.”
At last, pressing Alt+Tab and clicking the Task View button will no longer display a separate window for the snapped windows.
How to Show or Hide Show Snap Windows on Alt+Tab and Task View through Registry Editor?
To show or hide Show snap groups on Alt+Tab or Task View using Windows 11 Registry Editor, perform these steps:-
Step 1. First, open Registry Editor.
Step 2. Next, steer for the following key in the left sidebar of Registry Editor:-
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
Step 3. Then, on the opposite side, double-click on the EnableTaskGroups REG_DWORD and set its “Value data” to 0 to disable Snap windows on Alt+Tab and Task View.
Quick Note: In case you want to enable this feature on your Windows 11 PC, change the “Value data” to 1.
Step 4. After that, click the OK button.
Step 5. Lastly, reboot your PC to apply the changes.
Conclusion
Windows 11’s “Snap windows” feature is undeniably a testament to the operating system’s focus on enhancing multitasking and providing a seamless user experience. It embodies the ethos of modern computing: delivering power without compromising on aesthetics. While its introduction has been mostly positive, the beauty of Windows lies in its adaptability, allowing users to tailor experiences to their preferences. Whether one chooses to keep this feature on for easier navigation between snapped layouts or turn it off for a more traditional Alt+Tab experience, Windows 11 provides the means to do so with ease. This guide elucidates both methods — using the direct Settings approach or the more hands-on Registry Editor route. Whichever path you choose, rest assured that Windows 11 remains as flexible and user-friendly as ever, catering to both seasoned tech enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
