Windows 11’s signature frosted glass “Acrylic” effect might soon become a lot more visible across apps. Right now, this blur effect only applies to entire window elements, such as the Start menu or taskbar. However, Microsoft is now preparing to let developers apply Acrylic to individual elements within applications—meaning buttons, panels, or sidebars could all have their own subtle transparency. The change was revealed during a recent WinUI Community Call, as noted by Windows Latest, around the 13-minute mark.
This update opens the door for richer, more layered designs that enhance Windows 11’s Fluent aesthetic, allowing app interfaces to blend more seamlessly with the desktop background. It’s also another sign that Microsoft isn’t done refining the visual polish of its operating system. While these changes might not be enough to win over users who remain loyal to Windows 10, they do signal that Windows 11’s design evolution is far from over. Expect to see these new effects appear first in Microsoft’s own apps before rolling out more widely.
