Microsoft adapts classic Windows 10 desktop environment for touchscreen use

Microsoft has released a new Insider Preview version of Windows 10 and in this build the developer has optimized the classic desktop environment especially for 2-in-1 convertible devices.

Microsoft explains that the adjustments are separate from Windows 10’s tablet mode that users already get when they use their 2-in-1 device as a tablet and that, for example, displays the Live Tile menu full screen. The changes affect desktop mode, but icons on the taskbar, for example, have been spaced further apart to make them easier to touch with a touchscreen.

In addition, the search bar is collapsed by default and can be called up with the search icon and the virtual keyboard appears automatically when a user wants to enter text in a field. Parts of the explorer are also better to use with a touchscreen, Microsoft promises. The changes are part of Windows 10 Insider Preview 19592.1001 that Windows Insiders receive in the Fast Ring. Microsoft has also released Windows 10 Insider Preview 20H1 19041.172, but it contains only bug fixes.