Microsoft’s Latest Windows 11 Update Changes How Print Screen Key Works
The KB5025310 Update Introduces Microsoft’s Snipping Tool as Default Print Screen Behavior.
Microsoft has been making significant efforts to enhance the user experience with every update for Windows 11. In the latest beta update, the company has introduced a change to the behavior of the Print Screen key. The update, KB5025310, is currently available in the beta channel and includes a new default behavior for the Print Screen key, replacing the traditional screen capture with Microsoft’s own Snipping Tool.
Overhauling the Print Screen Key
The Print Screen key, also known as Prt Scr, has been a part of Windows operating systems for decades, allowing users to capture the entire screen and copy it to the clipboard. However, the default behavior of the key has always been somewhat limited, especially for users with multi-monitor setups. Additionally, many third-party applications have attempted to intercept the key, including Microsoft’s own OneDrive and Dropbox, which attempt to save screenshots made using Print Screen.
In response to these issues, Microsoft has decided to overhaul the default behavior of the Print Screen key in the latest Windows 11 update. The KB5025310 update introduces a new behavior for the key, which opens Microsoft’s own Snipping Tool by default.
New Default Behavior
Although Windows 11 has a feature that permits users to configure the Print Screen key to open the Snipping Tool, the KB5025310 update will make this the default behavior. Nonetheless, users who have already customized this option in the Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard will not experience any impact from this update.
The introduction of Snipping Tool as the default Print Screen behavior is aimed at providing a better user experience for Windows 11 users, especially those who use multi-monitor setups. The Snipping Tool allows users to capture a portion of the screen, an entire window, or the entire screen. Additionally, it provides a more efficient way to edit and save screenshots.
IT Admins and User Control
While some users may be surprised or even unhappy with this change, Microsoft has assured them that it is easy to switch the behavior back to the traditional screen capture. Additionally, IT admins should be able to control how this change rolls out to machines in the coming months.
The latest Windows 11 update is part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve the operating system’s user experience. With regular updates, the company aims to introduce new features and improve existing ones to provide a seamless and efficient experience for Windows 11 users.
