Discover 7 Innovative Features Windows 10 Adopted from Linux
Explore how Windows 10 has integrated key functionalities originally pioneered by Linux, enhancing user experience and productivity.
“Good artists copy; great artists steal.”
Though often misattributed to Pablo Picasso, this insightful quote actually comes from poet T.S. Eliot. It perfectly captures how innovation often builds upon existing ideas.
Windows 10 is a robust and widely popular operating system, but many of its features drew inspiration from Linux. Here are seven standout examples where Microsoft embraced Linux’s innovations.
1. Virtual Desktops
Windows 10 introduced virtual desktops to help users manage multiple open windows without additional monitors. However, this concept was first implemented in Linux and macOS, with Linux offering even more flexible customization options.
2. Active Screen Corners
In many Linux graphical environments, moving the mouse to a screen corner triggers actions like minimizing windows, launching apps, or activating the screensaver. macOS also supports active corners but with fewer options. Windows 10 currently offers only one active corner with limited functionality, requiring an extra click to activate.
3. Task View Mode
Windows 10’s Task View displays thumbnails of all open applications, accessible via a taskbar button. Linux has long offered similar features, often with a more visually appealing interface. For example, GNOME 3 users can press the Super (Windows) key to access a comprehensive overview of running programs.
4. Integrated Online Accounts
Windows 10’s universal apps connect to your online accounts, allowing background syncing of emails, calendars, and contacts. While convenient, Linux has offered even broader integration, supporting social networks, cloud storage, and photo services directly from system settings.
5. Application Stores
Linux distributions have long featured centralized application managers that install programs from secure online repositories, eliminating the need to manually download installers or manage updates. Windows 10 introduced the Microsoft Store, but it still lacks many popular daily-use applications, forcing users to download installers directly from websites.
6. Calendar Integration
Active users of Google or Outlook calendars appreciate being able to view upcoming events directly from the Windows taskbar after signing in. This feature is common in Linux environments like GNOME 3, which even supports Microsoft Exchange events, providing seamless calendar management.
7. Touchscreen Interface Design
Windows 10’s tile-based Metro interface was designed to unify desktop, tablet, and smartphone experiences, though it received mixed reviews. Meanwhile, Linux users encountered GNOME 3, a desktop environment optimized for touchscreens with large icons and gesture support. Initially controversial, GNOME 3 has become a preferred choice for Linux tablets.
Do you know other features Microsoft discreetly borrowed from different systems? Share your insights in the comments below!
Also read: 🧐 Which Linux Distribution Should You Choose Today? How to Install Linux: A Comprehensive Guide 12 Reasons Why Linux Outshines Windows
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