Podcast Title: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
Host: TWiT
Episode: Hands-On Windows 118: Multitasking in 24H2
Release Date: December 5, 2024

Introduction

In the latest episode of Hands-On Windows, host Paul Thrott delves deep into the intricacies of multitasking within Windows 11, specifically focusing on the 24H2 update. Released on December 5, 2024, this episode serves as an essential guide for both novice and power users looking to maximize their productivity and streamline their workflow. Thrott emphasizes the evolution of multitasking features in Windows 11, highlighting enhancements that might not be immediately apparent to everyday users.

Alt-Tab and Task View

Mastering Alt-Tab

Thrott begins by revisiting the fundamental multitasking tool, Alt-Tab, a feature that has been part of Windows since its inception. He explains its basic functionality:

"Alt Tab has been around since Windows 1.0. It is the basis of task switching, multitasking if you will." (00:08)

Thrott demonstrates how users can seamlessly switch between open applications using the Alt-Tab shortcut, emphasizing the ability to navigate forward and backward through open tasks using Shift + Alt + Tab.

Introducing Task View

Moving beyond Alt-Tab, Thrott introduces Task View, a feature introduced in Windows 10 that has seen significant refinements in the 24H2 update. Task View offers a more persistent and visual interface for managing open applications and virtual desktops.

"TaskView originally did three different things, now it does two different things. But they got rid of a Timeline feature." (02:14)

He highlights the removal of the Timeline feature, focusing instead on the enhanced capabilities of Task View in organizing and switching between tasks and desktops. Thrott also points out the integration of virtual desktops, providing users with a more organized workspace.

Snap Assist and Snap Groups

Evolution of Snap

Thrott transitions to discussing the Snap feature, which has been a staple of Windows multitasking since Windows 7. He traces its evolution through Windows 8 and 10, culminating in the robust implementation seen in Windows 11.

"Windows has really rich multitasking capabilities. A lot of good stuff there." (25:04)

Snap Assist

He delves into Snap Assist, explaining how it aids in arranging multiple windows on the screen efficiently. Thrott demonstrates dragging windows to different screen areas, which trigger Snap Assist to suggest layout configurations.

"Snap is the Automatic Windows layout feature... when you move a window around, you'll see this little preview comes up." (04:30)

Snap Groups

Further enhancing the Snap experience, Thrott introduces Snap Groups, a feature that allows users to restore and manage groups of snapped windows collectively.

"Snap groups represent all of those things together and then you see the individual... you see the group and then the app." (07:15)

He explains how Snap Groups simplify task management, especially when switching between different sets of applications for various projects.

Task Manager Enhancements

Redesigned Interface

Thrott shifts focus to the Task Manager, highlighting its redesigned appearance in Windows 11 24H2. The new interface is more streamlined, with a side navigation pane replacing traditional tabs.

"Task Manager Super Important... it's been restyled in Windows 11 to look more modern." (10:23)

Efficiency Mode

One of the standout features Thrott discusses is Efficiency Mode, which allows users to reduce the resource priority of specific applications without forcibly closing them.

"What this does is it lowers its priority, the app's priority in the CPU. And that sometimes is just enough to cause that trigger to occur." (12:45)

This feature is particularly useful for addressing system slowdowns without risking data loss from abruptly terminating applications.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Thrott also touches on advanced troubleshooting capabilities within Task Manager, such as running applications independently of the Explorer shell, which can be invaluable when the user interface becomes unresponsive.

"You can run Explorer from this window and be sure it's going to work. If Explorer is crashing and things are going south, you might want to save documents, reboot, obviously." (15:10)

Clipboard Enhancements

Clipboard History

Exploring further multitasking tools, Thrott examines the Clipboard History feature in Windows 11 24H2. This feature allows users to access multiple copied items, extending beyond the traditional single-item clipboard.

"Windows 11 has an additional feature, which is Clipboard History, that does two things. It can hold multiple items... and it can work between your different computers." (17:30)

He demonstrates how to enable and utilize Clipboard History using the Windows + V shortcut, showcasing its ability to store various formats, including text and images.

Cross-Device Sync

Although not enabled by default, Thrott highlights the Cross-Device Sync capability, which allows clipboard content to be shared across multiple Windows devices logged into the same Microsoft account.

"You can actually copy paste between PCs, right, using your Microsoft account. It's not enabled by default." (19:00)

This feature is particularly beneficial for users who work across different devices, ensuring seamless data transfer without the need for third-party applications.

Virtual Desktops

Creating and Managing Desktops

Thrott concludes the multitasking segment by exploring Virtual Desktops, an advanced feature that lets users create multiple desktop environments for different workflows.

"Virtual desktops is one of those features. It's a lot like multiple displays... or you see it and you're like, yeah, I get it. And I just don't care." (22:15)

He walks through the process of creating, renaming, and switching between virtual desktops using both mouse and keyboard shortcuts, emphasizing their role in organizing tasks and reducing desktop clutter.

Practical Applications

Using practical examples, Thrott illustrates how virtual desktops can be leveraged for distinct tasks, such as dedicating one desktop to work-related applications and another for personal use.

"Desktops is one of those features. It's a lot like multiple displays. You either need it and love it and use it every day, or you see it and you're like, yeah, I get it. And I just don't care." (24:00)

He acknowledges that while some users may not fully utilize virtual desktops, for those who do, it significantly enhances multitasking efficiency.

Conclusion

In wrapping up the episode, Thrott reiterates the depth and versatility of Windows 11's multitasking features introduced in the 24H2 update. He encourages listeners to explore these tools to enhance their productivity and tailor their Windows experience to their specific needs.

"Windows has really rich multitasking capabilities. A lot of good stuff there. So hopefully you did learn something in there." (24:50)

Thrott assures that even power users might discover new functionalities within these features, making Hands-On Windows 118 a valuable resource for anyone looking to get the most out of their Windows 11 experience.

Notable Quotes:

• "Alt Tab has been around since Windows 1.0. It is the basis of task switching, multitasking if you will." — Paul Thrott (00:08)

• "TaskView originally did three different things, now it does two different things. But they got rid of a Timeline feature." — Paul Thrott (02:14)

• "Snap is the Automatic Windows layout feature... when you move a window around, you'll see this little preview comes up." — Paul Thrott (04:30)

• "Task Manager Super Important... it's been restyled in Windows 11 to look more modern." — Paul Thrott (10:23)

• "Windows has really rich multitasking capabilities. A lot of good stuff there. So hopefully you did learn something in there." — Paul Thrott (24:50)

This episode of Hands-On Windows offers a comprehensive exploration of Windows 11's multitasking enhancements in the 24H2 update. Whether you're looking to refine your workflow with virtual desktops, optimize system performance using Task Manager, or leverage Clipboard History for seamless data transfer, Paul Thrott provides actionable insights and practical demonstrations to help you navigate and utilize these features effectively.