In February 2023, a new report revealed Microsoft’s plans to upgrade Windows 11’s Snap deployments with AI magic. According to the leak, Windows 11 (or its successor) will use machine learning to predict which apps and in what order the user wants to organize. Although Microsoft has yet to announce AI-powered Snap layouts, the latest build of Windows 11 from the development channel lets you test out a new Smart Window Snap, giving you a glimpse of what’s to come.
Enabling two hidden features in Windows 11 build 23435 (credits for finding go to @PhantomOfEarth) allows the operating system to create preset definitions of links, thus providing the ability to arrange open applications with one click. These groups appear below the current Snap layouts, so you still have more freedom in terms of window placement. Here’s a quick look at the new Smart Photo:
Currently, “snap predictions” only work when you hover over the “maximize” button. Snap Assist, a panel at the top of the screen that appears when you move a window across the screen, does not currently support predictions. Another limitation is that you can’t choose which apps appear in the suggestions, and Windows doesn’t seem to take into account the context of your current workflow.
It is important: Always backup your data before running experimental features with ViVeTool app or similar utilities. Digging undeclared changes often causes instability, crashes and bugs, so be careful.
How to enable the upgraded Snap deployments in Windows 11 build 23435?
- Download ViveTool M GitHub and unpack the files in a convenient and easy-to-locate folder.
- to press Win+X and choose terminal (admin).
- Switch Windows Terminal to the command line profile with the Ctrl+Shift+2 shortcut or by clicking the down arrow button at the top of the window.
- Navigate to the folder containing the ViveTool files using the CD command. For example, if you placed ViveTool in C:\Vive, type CD C:\Vive.
- Type vivetool /enable /id:41863571,42589465 and pressure to enter.
- Restart the computer.
What do you think of the upgraded snap layouts? Share your thoughts in the comments.