The Windows 10 Calculator app is getting a compact overlay mode

When Microsoft announced that it would be open-sourcing the Windows Calculator app that's bundled with Windows 10, it opened up a myriad of possibilities in regards to how development could move forward for the app. One of the first ideas that came about was the ability to graph equations with the app, but while we're still waiting for that to come to life, another useful feature is making its way to the app in the near future.

Microsoft's Dave Grochoki, Senior Program Manager working on the Windows Calculator and Notepad, announced that users will soon be able to have the Calculator app overlaid on top of other windows in the system at all times.

One of our top requested #WindowsCalculator features is the ability to keep Calculator on top of other windows as you work—you'll soon be able to do just that! 😁 Also, tiny calculator!! https://t.co/AEqu4nkhb4 #BuildTogether pic.twitter.com/TJpkXrRIL4
— Dave Grochocki (@dgrochocki) July 30, 2019

Microsoft introduced Compact Overlay windows for Windows 10 apps a while back with the Creators Update, and it's typically used by apps that play video content, such as Movies & TV or Skype during a call. An implementation of the feature in the Calculator app was a frequent request on GitHub, and Microsoft seems to be acting on it.

Right now, it's not clear when the future will be available to the public, but when that happens, it will likely start by being released to Insiders.