Gnome’s user interface is set to undergo major changes as the team responsible for its design seeks to modernize windows control. Tobias Bernard, a member of the team, recently summarized the results of discussions by developers regarding plans to update the window control model.
Currently, the window control model used by Gnome is outdated, relying on concepts from 50 years ago. This model requires users to manually adjust the size and position of windows, leading to a cluttered and inefficient workspace. While some users have grown accustomed to this model, it poses challenges for beginners who struggle to manage overlapping windows.
The goal of the proposed modernization is to optimize window placement so that users can quickly and easily start working without wasting time on window manipulation. The current approach is described as messy and burdensome, with users having to disassemble the pile of overlapping windows themselves.
To achieve more efficient window control, the proposal suggests incorporating elements of a mosaic layout known as TILILS (Tiles In Layout) for new windows. This layout automatically opens new windows without overlapping existing ones, ensuring optimal use of screen space. Although GNOME already offers optional support for a similar layout, it remains underutilized due to existing limitations and issues.
The current mosaic regime has several drawbacks, including manual control, limited support for only two windows in a layout, difficulties in adding support for complex layouts, lack of control for virtual desktops, and the inability to group windows in stacks for simultaneous display.
