Microsoft is too busy with AI to fix Windows 11’s design โ€” so developers stepped up

Windows 11 users now have access to a helpful new app called FluentFlyout. It enhances the media controls with modern and useful pop-up menus. I’m impressed with the app’s creators, but wish Microsoft had already included these features in Windows 11.

FluentFlyout brings media controls to Windows 11 that pop up whenever you use media keys โ€“ like play, pause, or volume controls. These controls can be tailored to your preferences and fit seamlessly with the Windows 11 look and feel.

Windows 11 does have media controls, but they show up in a spot that isn’t ideal โ€“ above the Quick Settings. I think the way FluentFlyout handles them is better.

FluentFlyout is available as a free download from the Microsoft Store. For a one-time payment of $2.96, you can add a handy taskbar widget. Alternatively, you can download FluentFlyout directly from GitHub to unlock all features completely free.

FluentFlyout offers several helpful features, including a preview of the next song or media that will play. You can also personalize the flyout’s appearance, choose where it appears on your screen, and adjust the app’s overall theme.

Microsoft has been making some noticeable improvements to its design recently. For example, they just updated the Run dialog box โ€“ something they hadn’t done in three decades! Plus, they’re gradually enhancing dark mode within Windows 11.

It’s reasonable to critique Microsoft when major updates to its user interface take so long โ€“ decades, in some cases. Last year, our editor Zac Bowden pointed out that Windows 11 still felt incomplete.

One of the biggest complaints about Windows 11 and Microsoft is that the design feels unfinished and doesn’t quite hang together. It often feels like Microsoft is prioritizing adding AI features โ€“ even to simple apps like Notepad โ€“ and focusing on turning Windows into a more proactive operating system, rather than making the overall experience visually polished and consistent.

Fortunately, dedicated developers are stepping in to improve Windows 11. Apps like FluentFlyout offer features that many users feel should have been included by Microsoft from the start.

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2025-12-05 22:10