Windows 10 takes a leap forward for UI fanatics today as Microsoft introduces a brand new system-wide theme that turns the Windows Shell, which includes the Start menu, Taskbar, and Action Center from dark to light. Windows 10 has had a light and dark theme mode for quite some time, but up until today, it was only for apps.
The new theme option is an additional one which is separate from the apps theme option, meaning users will be able to theme the Windows Shell separately from apps, allowing for a hybrid setup of dark apps and a light shell, or vice-versa.
The light theme for the Windows Shell gives the entire UI a fresh, clean look, along with a new default Windows 10 wallpaper that matches it. It affects all areas of the shell, including notifications, the keyboard, and context menus in some places.
Microsoft has wanted to build a light theme into the Windows Shell since Windows 10 first started development but is only now just getting around to it in 19H1, which is scheduled to ship in April 2019.
It appears Microsoft is focusing on UI improvements rather extensively in Windows 10 19H1, with plans to implement Fluent Design into even more of the Windows Shell. Things like context menus and jump lists are being updated with Fluent Design, and we can expect to see more shadow effects implemented throughout the OS too which adds an additional layer of depth.
Windows Insiders can now download the new light theme and wallpaper on 19H1 build 18282.
The new light theme in Windows 10 is another step forward in Microsoft's adventure of adding Fluent Design to Windows 10. What are your thoughts on the new theme? Let us know in the comments below.
