Windows 11 Adds Toggle to Force Apps to Open Maximized by Default

Microsoft is testing a feature in Windows 11 preview builds that allows users to set apps to open maximized by default. This toggle, found in the accessibility section of Windows Settings, aims to help devices with small screens such as handheld gaming PCs and small tablets.

The new option, first spotted by user phantomofearth, is called 'Automatically open app windows maximized when they open.' When enabled, all apps will open maximized instead of in windowed mode. This change is expected to benefit devices with screens under 13 inches, particularly those with displays of 10 inches or less.

Windows Central notes that Windows is not well optimized for small screen sizes and opening apps full screen can improve the experience. The toggle can also help on PCs connected to a TV, where windowed apps are less practical due to the distance between the user and the screen.

The feature is part of Microsoft's broader effort to make Windows 11 more customizable, following recent changes to the Start menu and context menus. However, the company has not said when this toggle will reach the stable release, and it may change before general availability.