is planning a change to the default function of the Print Screen button for users. Typically, pressing the button sends a snapshot of what’s on the monitor to the clipboard. In it Windows 11 Insider Preview builds, however, pressing the button launches the Snipping Tool, which is more versatile.
The Snipping Tool allows users to capture a section of their screen, rather than the entire screen (although this is still an option). You can capture everything in a single window, or just a part of what you see, thanks to rectangular and free-form modes.
While the Snipping Tool has more utility than the traditional Print Screen feature, advanced users may not benefit much from the change. The Print Screen button is out of the way on most keyboards, and for many people it may be easier to continue using the existing Snipping Tool shortcut (Win Key + Shift + S). The Xbox Game Bar app can instantly save a screenshot without any additional steps, although you’ll still need to move your hand to the Print Screen button (the shortcut combination is Win + Alt + Print Screen key).
As Note, those who are not happy with the change will be able to revert the function of the Print Screen button to the same as it has been doing for decades through their system’s accessibility settings. Also, if you’ve already assigned a custom function to the key, Windows 11 won’t change it automatically.
Microsoft is testing the change right now, and depending on user feedback, it may reverse course and keep the Print Screen feature as it is in retail versions of Windows 11. Still, expanding what the key can do may make it more useful for many people. .
