Microsoft released Windows 11 build 22000.132 to the Dev and Beta channels today, bringing the new Teams experience to all users, along with the usual crop of fixes and improvements. In addition to the fixes, Dev channel users are also beginning to receive updates for a few apps via the Microsoft Store. These included a new Snipping Tool that combines the functionality of both the older app and the Snip & Sketch experience. The Calculator and Mail and Calendar apps are also receiving a visual update to bring them in line with Windows 11’s design language.
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The Snipping Tool has for long notified users that the tool will be going away and be replaced by the new Snip & Sketch experience. With Windows 11, the company aims to unify the screenshot experience, bundling both features into one app, such as the Win+Shift+S shortcuts and the delay timers. The app also features theming options and a design that matches that of Windows 11, including rounded corners. The ability to annotate, crop, and share after capturing a screenshot is also present.
Another app that is receiving a visual update is the Calculator app, which now features theming options and rounded corners just like the Snipping Tool. The changes are subtle, yet welcome. The company is also highlighting the various advanced features in the app like graphing options, Programmer Mode, and more. The Redmond firm also notes that since the app is now rewritten in C# and is open sourced on GitHub, developers can contribute to the app as desired.
The last app to receive a fresh coat of paint is the Mail and Calendar app. The offering features rounded corners and design tweaks to bring them in line with the OS. However, it must be noted that this is not the unified Outlook app that the firm is building. That app is being built on what is internally called Outlook on the web Powered Experiences (OPX). There is no word on when a preview of that app is expected to make it to users.
Another first look from the team...#FocusSessions on #Windows11 coming soon. This has been a game-changer for me, especially with @Spotify integration #Productivity #Creativity #WindowsInsiders pic.twitter.com/HfJh4niDiS
— Panos Panay (@panos_panay) August 5, 2021
Microsoft’s Panos Panay has been teasing more updates, such as a new Alarms & Clock app that features Spotify integration for a feature called Focus Sessions. Those apps are also expected to be released soon to Insiders.
These new apps are beginning to roll out to users in the Dev channel running Windows 11 build 22000.132. However, since the rollout has just commenced, it might be a while before it propagates to all users’ devices.