Slow-Motion Minimization and Maximization of File Explorer Windows in Windows

Windows users can enable a unique visual effect that slows down the animation of minimizing and maximizing windows, including File Explorer windows. This effect, originally intended for debugging and demonstration purposes, adds a touch of novelty to the user experience.

Procedure:

  1. Launch the Registry Editor (regedit) with administrative privileges.
  2. Navigate to the following registry key:
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\Software\Microsoft\Windows\DWM
  1. In the right pane, right-click and select “New” > “DWORD (32-bit) Value.”
  2. Name the new value “AnimationsShiftKey.”
  3. Double-click on the newly created “AnimationsShiftKey” value and set its value data to “1.”
  4. Click “OK” to save the change.
  5. Restart your computer or log out and back in to apply the change.

Usage:

To experience the slow-motion animation, simply hold down the Shift key while minimizing or maximizing any window, including File Explorer windows. The windows will animate in slow motion while the Shift key is held down. Releasing the Shift key will return the animation to its normal speed.

Reversing the Effect:

To disable the slow-motion effect, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Registry Editor again.
  2. Navigate to the same registry key as before:
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\Software\Microsoft\Windows\DWM
  1. Locate the “AnimationsShiftKey” value and double-click on it.
  2. Change the value data back to “0” or simply delete the “AnimationsShiftKey” value.
  3. Click “OK” to save the change.
  4. Restart your computer or log out and back in to apply the change.

The slow-motion animation effect will be disabled, and windows will minimize and maximize at their normal speed.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the slow-motion animation effect?

The slow-motion animation effect is primarily intended for debugging and demonstration purposes. It allows developers and users to observe the animation of windows in slow motion, which can be helpful for identifying and resolving animation-related issues. However, it can also be used as a novelty effect to add a touch of visual interest to the user experience.

How do I enable the slow-motion animation effect?

To enable the slow-motion animation effect, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Registry Editor with administrative privileges.
  2. Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\DWM.
  3. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named “AnimationsShiftKey” and set its value data to “1”.
  4. Restart your computer or log out and back in to apply the change.

How do I use the slow-motion animation effect?

To use the slow-motion animation effect, simply hold down the Shift key while minimizing or maximizing any window, including File Explorer windows. The windows will animate in slow motion while the Shift key is held down. Releasing the Shift key will return the animation to its normal speed.

How do I disable the slow-motion animation effect?

To disable the slow-motion animation effect, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Registry Editor with administrative privileges.
  2. Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\DWM.
  3. Locate the “AnimationsShiftKey” value and delete it or change its value data to “0”.
  4. Restart your computer or log out and back in to apply the change.

Are there any potential drawbacks to using the slow-motion animation effect?

While the slow-motion animation effect is generally safe to use, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

Is the slow-motion animation effect available in all versions of Windows?

The slow-motion animation effect is available in Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10. It is not available in earlier versions of Windows.

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