Windows 10 is in the process of getting a new Windows 10X-like Action Center interface with rounded corners as part of the Sun Valley update. The Sun Valley update is also known internally as ‘Windows 10++’ and will deliver a sweeping visual rejuvenation of Windows experience.
In the preview builds, Microsoft appears to be testing a prototype for a new flag that will “smooth the corners” of the windows, including the Start Menu and UWP apps.
The flag is titled “RoundedWindowCornersPrototype” and will get rid of the sharp edges to deliver the highly anticipated aesthetic look of Windows 10. The rounded change of the corner is going to be very subtle and will only apply to modern areas. In other words, the Windows 7 or macOS-like rounded corners will respect the Start Menu, inbox apps, Action Center, Settings app, and other modern areas.
The subtle modifications would be noticeable and give a more modern appearance to the interface that blends better with other operating systems. It’s also worth noting that until Windows 8, when the Metro interface with sharp edges took over, Microsoft used rounded corners. Of course, we can’t be sure it will happen, but the new references spotted in the build indicate that this design change is still being considered by Microsoft.
Windows 10 redesign reports first emerged when Panos Panay became the new head of both Windows client and Microsoft hardware. Panos Panay has promised that the company will invest more in Windows 10 and accelerate innovation to ensure that Windows is considered the best operating system.
It is also likely that the design work that Microsoft has done on Windows 10X will also benefit Windows 10. For example, Microsoft appears to be testing a new Action Center that uses Windows 10X design clues. Reports have suggested that Windows 10 redesign will be rolled out with version 21H2 updates in the fall of 2021.
