Windows Calculator gaining Always-on-Top mode
Soon, you'll be able to keep calculating even when you jump between apps.
What you need to know
- The Windows Calculator will soon gain an Always-on-Top mode.
- The feature showcases a unique use of the Compact Overlay mode.
- Microsoft open sourced the Windows Calculator earlier this year.
The Windows Calculator will soon have an Always-on-Top feature. The new feature will allow users to pop the calculator into a mini-mode that can stay on top of all apps and windows. The feature addition is thanks to several contributors helping improve the concept and implementation of the feature on GitHub.
Microsoft open sourced the Windows Calculator earlier this year. At the time, Microsoft stated that the calculator was open sourced to "[encourage] your fresh perspectives and increased participation to help define the future of Calculator." This new feature certainly qualifies as a fresh perspective, as it relies on the Compact Overlay mode which is usually reserved for playing videos.
The feature was teased on Twitter by Dave Grochocki, a Senior Project Manager at Microsoft who works on the Windows Calculator.
One of our top requested #WindowsCalculator features is the ability to keep Calculator on top of other windows as you work—you'll soon be able to do just that! 😁 Also, tiny calculator!! https://t.co/AEqu4nkhb4 #BuildTogether pic.twitter.com/TJpkXrRIL4One of our top requested #WindowsCalculator features is the ability to keep Calculator on top of other windows as you work—you'll soon be able to do just that! 😁 Also, tiny calculator!! https://t.co/AEqu4nkhb4 #BuildTogether pic.twitter.com/TJpkXrRIL4— Dave Grochocki (@dgrochocki) July 30, 2019July 30, 2019
Grochocki did not include a release date of the feature, but the GitHub log shows that the feature was moved to "Completed" earlier today. The feature will probably roll out in the near future.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.