Microsoft PowerToys

Microsoft released PowerToys 0.94 with Settings Search, Shortcut Conflict Detection, and New Mouse Cursor Mode

Microsoft has rolled out PowerToys 0.94, and this release is packed with quality-of-life improvements that make the popular productivity toolset even smoother to use. From a new search experience in Settings to smarter shortcut conflict detection and accessibility upgrades, PowerToys continues to refine the Windows experience for developers, power users, and everyday users alike.

Settings Search: Find What You Need Faster

search_demo

PowerToys now includes a search box in Settings, making it easier than ever to locate the right configuration.

  • Supports fuzzy matching (no need to type the exact name).

  • Press Ctrl+F or click the box to start typing.

  • Suggestions appear instantly, and a Show all results option reveals everything in one view.

Shortcut Conflict Detection

ShortcutConflict

If you’ve ever pressed a hotkey only to trigger two actions at once, you’ll appreciate this one. PowerToys now highlights shortcut conflicts directly in the UI:

  • Conflicting shortcuts appear in red.

  • A new conflicts dashboard tile shows the total number of conflicts.

  • One click opens a full overview, making it easy to reassign shortcuts.

Mouse Pointer Crosshairs: New Gliding Cursor Mode

GlidingCursor

Accessibility takes center stage with a gliding cursor option. This mode lets you:

  • Control the mouse using just a single shortcut.

  • Move step by step with more precision.

  • Lock horizontal and vertical positions before clicking.

This feature is especially useful for users who find precise mouse movements challenging.

Other Notable Improvements

  • Installer upgraded from WiX3 to WiX5 for better security and reliability.

  • Quick Accent now supports Maltese, with frequently used accents remembered across sessions.

  • Windows 10 context menu modules now clean up properly on uninstall.

  • Hosts Editor gains a “No leading spaces” option.

  • Command Palette gets bug fixes, visual updates, and new developer-friendly filters.

What’s Coming in PowerToys 0.95?

Next month’s release is set to include:

  • A revamped Keyboard Manager UI.

  • A new automatic theme switcher to toggle between light and dark mode based on your schedule.

You can grab the latest release through PowerToys’ built-in updater or from the official release page.