Microsoft has a history of taking popular features from its open-source PowerToys suite and integrating them directly into Windows. FancyZones inspired the improved Snap layouts in Windows 11, and now another utility is ready for prime time: AltWindowCycle.
What is AltWindowCycle?
AltWindowCycle is a new utility currently being developed for PowerToys that allows users to switch between windows belonging to the same application. While Alt + Tab cycles through all open windows across your system, this tool scopes the switching action to just the app you are currently using.
According to a GitHub pull request by Microsoft engineer Clint Rutkas, the feature uses the Alt + ` (backtick) keyboard shortcut. It is designed specifically for users who juggle multiple instances of a single program, such as several browser windows, multiple terminal sessions, or different code editor tabs.
Catching up to macOS and Linux
This functionality already exists on other major operating systems. macOS users can use Cmd + ` to cycle through windows of the frontmost application, and many Linux distributions support similar behavior with Alt + `. By adding this natively to Windows 11, Microsoft would help its OS catch up to these long-standing multitasking standards.
For everyday users, this means less time hunting for a specific browser tab or terminal window in the Alt + Tab grid. Instead of scrolling through every open app on your desktop, you can quickly toggle between just the ones that matter to your current task.
Why it belongs in Windows 11
While many PowerToys features are niche tools for power users, AltWindowCycle is simple and intuitive. It mirrors the logic of existing Windows shortcuts, making it a natural addition rather than bloat. If Microsoft follows through on integrating this feature, it could significantly streamline multitasking workflows without requiring third-party software.
Source: Windows Central
Over to you: Do you currently use PowerToys to manage multiple app windows, or do you rely on Alt + Tab?
