By Tech.atang@gmail.com 
Since its release in 2021, Windows 11 has turned heads with its redesigned interface, prompting many to notice that it looks surprisingly similar to Apple’s macOS. With a centered taskbar, rounded corners, and streamlined icons, Microsoft’s latest OS release seems to be inspired by Apple’s minimalist approach. But what led Microsoft to adopt a design language so reminiscent of macOS?
1. User Demand for a Clean and Minimalistic Interface
One of the biggest reasons Windows 11 has a more macOS-like aesthetic is user demand. Over the years, users have grown accustomed to sleek, minimalistic interfaces as devices across brands prioritize simplicity and ease of use. With macOS already widely regarded for its clean design and cohesive user experience, many Windows users wanted a similar look and feel that focused on functionality without the clutter.
Microsoft listened to this feedback and aimed to make Windows 11 look and feel more modern, streamlined, and visually appealing. The shift away from the sometimes overwhelming, densely packed design of previous Windows versions reflects Microsoft’s commitment to creating a distraction-free workspace, a goal macOS has championed for years.
2. Centered Taskbar and Start Menu
One of the most noticeable changes in Windows 11 is the centered taskbar and Start menu, which immediately calls to mind macOS’s iconic Dock. While Windows traditionally placed its Start menu and icons to the left, Microsoft opted to center these elements in Windows 11. This change not only makes Windows feel more balanced and visually organized but also draws from Apple’s macOS layout.
Centering the taskbar aligns the main icons and tools in a more accessible way for users working on widescreen displays, making the design both aesthetically pleasing and functional. With more users working across multiple devices and large screens, the centered layout offers a consistency that appeals to those familiar with Apple’s Dock-based navigation.
3. Rounded Corners and Consistent Design Language
Windows 11 has done away with the sharp edges and boxy design elements of previous Windows versions, opting instead for rounded corners and softened visuals. This look is a major departure from the “flat” design of Windows 10, which used straight lines and sharp angles. By adopting these rounded corners, Windows 11 aligns more closely with the design style of macOS, which has long used rounded edges to create a softer, more inviting interface.
This trend of using rounded corners isn’t unique to Microsoft or Apple. It’s part of a larger design shift in the tech industry, as rounded shapes are believed to be easier on the eyes and less distracting. In adopting this look, Microsoft acknowledges the popularity of Apple’s approach while also appealing to the industry’s trend toward more organic, user-friendly visuals.
4. Enhanced Window Management with Snap Layouts
macOS has been praised for its intuitive window management features, particularly with its Mission Control and Spaces functions that allow users to easily switch between different apps and desktops. Windows 11’s new Snap Layouts offer a similar experience, allowing users to organize multiple open windows into predefined layouts, improving multitasking and productivity. While Snap Layouts don’t copy macOS directly, they reflect Microsoft’s attempt to enhance user productivity by making window management more accessible.
Microsoft’s approach with Snap Layouts shows that it’s not just copying macOS but innovating in areas where Apple has been successful, tailoring the functionality to meet the needs of Windows users. This feature combines functionality with a clean design, which, again, resonates with macOS users who value productivity and organization.
5. Consistency Across Devices
Apple’s ecosystem has long been admired for its consistency, with a unified design language across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS that creates a seamless experience. By adopting design elements that echo macOS, Windows 11 is Microsoft’s attempt to create a similarly cohesive experience across its own product lines, including PCs, tablets, and Surface devices.
With the rise of hybrid work environments and multiple devices for work and personal use, users expect their systems to feel connected. Windows 11’s design choices reflect an effort to close the gap between desktop and mobile, similar to what Apple has achieved. These changes offer a more fluid experience for users who switch between a Surface tablet and a traditional Windows PC, bringing a sense of unity that has long been a hallmark of Apple’s approach.
6. The Rise of Cross-Platform Design Trends
The similarities between Windows 11 and macOS also reflect a broader industry trend toward cross-platform design, where operating systems share visual cues to create familiar user experiences across devices and brands. Today’s users often switch between ecosystems—perhaps using a Windows PC at work and a Mac at home—so both Apple and Microsoft are adopting design trends that appeal to users across both platforms.
The influence of mobile devices is also apparent in these design choices. With Android and iOS popularizing rounded corners, minimalist interfaces, and intuitive layouts, desktop operating systems are following suit to maintain consistency across devices. Microsoft’s decision to update Windows 11’s aesthetic is a response to these evolving user expectations.
7. Competition and the Quest for Innovation
Microsoft and Apple are direct competitors, but they also influence each other’s design and functionality. Apple’s macOS is often perceived as the “sleeker” of the two, so Microsoft has been driven to modernize Windows’ appearance to stay competitive. By embracing a clean design, centered elements, and cohesive window management, Microsoft is leveling the playing field, demonstrating that Windows can be just as stylish and user-friendly as macOS.
However, while Windows 11 has taken inspiration from macOS, it’s not simply copying it. Microsoft has incorporated these design elements to better serve its user base, and Windows 11 retains unique features and functionality that set it apart. Microsoft’s goal is to create a Windows experience that feels as refined as macOS, all while retaining the flexibility and customization options that Windows users appreciate.
Conclusion: The Evolution Toward User-Centric Design
Windows 11’s similarities to macOS reflect the evolving needs of modern users who value aesthetics, usability, and cross-device consistency. By adopting some of macOS’s design principles, Microsoft is addressing the demand for a sleek and intuitive interface while preserving Windows’ unique identity. This convergence isn’t about one platform imitating another; rather, it’s about both companies adapting to industry trends and user expectations, shaping the future of computing with a user-first approach