Microsoft PowerToys 0.98 Update: Command Palette Dock is AWESOME 😍
Microsoft PowerToys has long been a favorite for Windows power users, offering a suite of open-source tools that make daily tasks faster and more efficient. With the release of version 0.98, a new feature called the Command Palette Dock has arrived, and it’s being hailed as a potential replacement for the traditional Taskbar and Start Menu.
Here is everything you need to know about this exciting new update.
What is the Command Palette Dock?
The Command Palette Dock is a persistent "top bar" or secondary taskbar that keeps your favorite commands, system information, and extensions within reach at all times. Instead of having to remember complex keyboard shortcuts or open a search menu, you can now access your most-used tools with a single click.
Key Features:
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System Monitoring: At a glance, you can see your CPU usage, GPU usage, RAM consumption, and internet speeds (upload/download).
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Pinned Extensions: You can pin specific tools like a calculator, file search (via the "Everything" extension), or media controls directly to the dock.
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Quick Search: A dedicated icon acts like a simplified Start Menu, allowing you to search for apps and commands instantly.
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Highly Customizable: You can move the dock to the top, bottom, left, or right of your screen and change its appearance with themes like Acrylic or Transparent.
How to Enable the Dock
Since this feature is currently in Preview (Beta), it is disabled by default to ensure system stability. To try it out:
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Update PowerToys: Ensure you are on version 0.98. You can download it from the Official GitHub Page or the Microsoft Store.
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Enable Command Palette: In the PowerToys settings, make sure the "Command Palette" module is toggled on.
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Activate the Dock: Go to the Dock (Preview) section within the Command Palette settings and toggle it to "Enabled."
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Pin Your Favorites: Open the regular Command Palette (usually
Alt + Space), right-click on any extension or app, and select "Pin to Dock."
Why This Matters
The Command Palette Dock represents a shift toward a cleaner, faster Windows experience. Unlike the standard Windows Search, which can sometimes feel cluttered or slow, the PowerToys Dock is:
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Ad-Free: No suggested web results or ads in your search.
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Community Driven: New extensions are constantly being added by the developer community.
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Lightweight: It provides essential system metrics without needing to keep Task Manager open.
While it is still in the early stages and may occasionally crash (as it is a preview), the Command Palette Dock is a glimpse into a more productive, customizable future for Windows users.
I’ve also made a video on this topic — you can watch it below.
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