The Print key has been an integral part of Microsoft Windows since 1995. It allows users to take a screenshot of the current screen and save it to the clipboard. However, that could change soon, as Microsoft is planning to give the print key a new function.

However, the history of the push button goes back even further. It was first introduced on IBM's MF2 keyboard in 1978 as a standalone key. On most computer keyboards today, it is located to the right of the F12 key and above the Insert key. For nearly 45 years, the Print key has retained its original function, but Microsoft is now planning a change to make it even more useful.

Windows 11 brings changes to the print key – snipping tool for better screenshots

Microsoft has made a change with the introduction of Windows 11 that changes the way users take screenshots. For a long time this has been done with the Print key in Windows. according to the blog Windowslatest, the latest version of the Windows 11 operating system KB5025310, which is being rolled out in the Beta Channel for Windows Insiders, will change the screen recording function. Instead of the entire window, pressing the key now leads to the snipping tool, which was previously only accessible via a combination of the Windows key, Shift key and S key.

Although some users prefer the quick full screen capture or are unfamiliar with the snipping tool, the latter offers more features than the traditional way of taking a screenshot. So there are good reasons to familiarize yourself with the new function.

Windows 11 Snipping Tool – Versatile functions for screenshots and videos

The Snipping Tool on Windows 11 allows users to take screenshots in a variety of ways. You can record a specific area of ​​the screen, an entire window or a free defined area. Additionally, there is the option to take a delayed screenshot or even screenshots of multiple windows at the same time. For the first time, Windows 11 allows users to screen recordings as video .

With the change, Microsoft promises its users more convenience by now allowing them to select only certain areas of the screen or individual windows. The snipping tool provides a simple and effective way to create screen captures according to the user's needs. This allows them to capture the information they need without having to take additional steps.

More user-friendly for new Windows users

The change to the print key in Windows 11 is likely to be particularly beneficial for new users of the operating system. In contrast to the previous function, you now receive immediate feedback when you press the button. Until now, the screenshot was simply saved to the clipboard without Windows signaling this in any way. This can be confusing, especially for inexperienced users.

Originally the button had a different function under the name “Print Screen”. In the MS-DOS operating system, which was still based on command line commands, when the key was pressed, the text displayed on the screen was sent to the printer port and printed out, provided a printer was connected.

If users do not want the new keyboard layout, they have the option of deactivating the snipping tool in the settings in the Accessibility and Keyboard area. This way they can keep their usual way of recording screens.

Sources:

Golem , Futurezone , Chip

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