Microsoft just transformed how power users navigate Windows 11. The PowerToys v0.100.0 update introduces a new Command Palette Dock that can effectively replace the native taskbar. It pins favorite apps, system monitoring widgets like CPU and battery stats, and custom extensions to any edge of your screen.
This isn’t just a cosmetic tweak. The dock acts as a centralized command center, evolving directly from the classic PowerToys Run launcher. You can search files, run commands, and execute extensions instantly. But there is a slight visual catch. To get a perfectly seamless look, you have to hide the native Windows taskbar. That native bar will still temporarily reappear whenever you hit the Start menu.
Under the Hood: .NET 10 and Extensions
The performance gains here are entirely structural. Microsoft rebuilt the application using the .NET 10 framework, which reduced the software’s overall system footprint by 15 percent. It feels incredibly snappy. That speed matters when you are firing off complex file searches or pulling up live system metrics.
They also solved a major friction point for community plugins. An integrated Extension Gallery now lives directly inside the app. You no longer have to mess with WinGet commands or navigate the Microsoft Store to discover and install community-built plugins. The official Microsoft documentation outlines how this streamlines the entire customization process.
Multi-Monitor Workflows
If you run a complex desk setup, this update specifically targets you. The new dock features full multi-monitor support. That means you can configure a completely independent Command Palette Dock for each display. You might keep CPU metrics and system tools on your vertical secondary monitor, while your primary gaming or coding screen houses your core application shortcuts.
Why It Matters
For years, Windows power users have looked across the aisle with a bit of envy. The introduction of this highly customizable top or side-bar dock finally mirrors the workflow setups native to macOS and Linux distributions, like Spotlight or KDE’s Krunner. It fills a long-standing UI gap. Microsoft isn’t forcing you to use it. And for anyone who relies on keyboard shortcuts to fly through their daily workload, the native Windows taskbar suddenly feels a lot less necessary.