Microsoft has introduced the concept of 'Charms' in Windows 8, which basically provides shortcuts for frequently used features. This bar exists on the right side of the screen, and when invoked, you can view an array of Charms namely, Search, Start, Share, Devices, and Settings. The plus point with the bar is that its not just a Start screen feature, it will be available system-wide, in both modern style apps and desktop environment.

When you enter the Start screen for first, you will not find the Charms bar because it only appears when summoned. There are different ways to do so including a touchscreen, swipe, pressing keys on the keyboard, or pressing the Windows + C keys. You can also do it with a mouse, just place the cursor on screen's upper or lower-right corner and turn the cursor along the right edge.

Few of the Charms are context-sensitive that means their application depends on the part of OS you are working with. This feature helps the modern-style apps in Windows 8 to take advantage of 'contracts'. Here is a closer look on the functions of Charm options.

Search

It allow users to search apps (desktop or modern-style), files and system settings by default. The user can even search for individual apps. For instance, if you are in mail app, it will search your email messages. When you are at Start screen, you don't have to bring up the search tool, just type the name and the tool will pop up automatically saving two steps.

Start

The default screen which greets you on sign in is the Start screen. The Start Charm behave like a home button and brings you back to the Start screen and takes you back from where you came. Hit the Windows key on the keyboard to activate it.

Share

As the name suggests, it will let you share information between applications. It works only with the Modern-style apps that too with the one supporting Share contract.

Devices

This one gives you quick access to all the supported devices connected to the machine such as a second monitor or printer. For the first time, you have to add them to the setting menu.



Settings

This is a context-sensitive Charm displaying settings in a Modern-style app and Control Panel, Windows help and Support Center, and the Personalization and System Info panes of the Control Panel in desktop app. However, wherever you are, you will always find six system setting viz. Volume, Networks, Notifications, Brightness, Keyboard, and Power. This feature offers a streamlined interface for important PC settings avoiding intimidate Control Panel handling.

All these Charms have wrapped the Start menu in Windows 8 with minimalist design, which are powerful and strongly integrated.








The author highlights the new concept Charms with Microsoft Windows 8 and the functionalities of different shortcuts, which will make working more efficient and easy.