The topic of A Microsoft engineer just ported a macOS feature over to Windows with an app is currently the subject of lively debate — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
Sometimes, when Microsoft doesn’t add a feature to Windows 10 or 11, the userbase will make it themselves. One could even argue that Windows users are better developers for the OS than Microsoft itself. However, sometimes a Microsoft engineer will make an app to fix an issue they’ve been encountering and release it for everyone to use, which is like the ultimate middle-ground between a user-made app and an official Windows addition.
Such is the case with PeekDesktop, an app developed by someone who works at Microsoft and released as a standalone app instead of a core Windows feature. Best of all, the app actually takes a handy feature from macOS’s book and adds it to Windows, meaning you can tap into the power of fast desktop peeking without needing to move to Apple’s ecosystem.
As spotted by Windows Latest, PeekDesktop was the idea and invention of the VP and Member of Technical Staff at Microsoft, Scott Hanselman. If you’ve used macOS Sonoma before, you’ll know of the “click wallpaper to reveal desktop” feature, which lets you quickly hide all open windows by clicking on your desktop. It’s very handy for opening shortcuts and moving files without needing to dig through your open windows. Once you’re done, clicking the desktop a second time reveals all the windows again.
However, PeekDesktop actually comes with four different methods of showing the desktop:
If you’d like to give this app a spin, be sure to pop over to the PeekDesktop GitHub page and click the version number under “releases” on the right sidebar. That will take you to the download page for the latest version of the app.
Why it matters
News like this often changes audience expectations and competitors’ plans.
When one player makes a move, others usually react — it is worth reading the event in context.
What to look out for next
The full picture will become clear in time, but the headline already shows the dynamics of the industry.
Further statements and user reactions will add to the story.