Introduction

The Charms bar was an essential feature of Windows 8 and included various helpful shortcuts like search, settings, devices, and sharing. However, with the release of Windows 10, Microsoft eliminated the Charms bar and integrated its functionality into other areas. If you have recently upgraded to Windows 10 and miss the Charms bar or simply want to learn how to use Windows 10 efficiently without it, this article is for you.

1. Accessing System Settings

In Windows 8, you used the Charms bar to access the system settings. Now, in Windows 10:

a) Right-click on the Start button (or press Windows key + X) and select “Settings” from the menu.

b) Or click on the “Notification” icon in the taskbar (bottom-right corner) and choose “All settings.”

2. Searching for Apps or Files

The search feature has been moved from the Charms bar to a dedicated search box in the taskbar.

a) Click on the search box (or magnifying glass icon) in the taskbar.

b) Or press the ‘Windows’ key + ‘S’ on your keyboard.

c) Type your query, and browse through categories like apps, settings, documents, web results, etc.

3. Sharing Content

When it comes to sharing content in Windows 10, most apps now have a share button built-in.

a) Open the app from which you want to share content.

b) Look for a share icon (usually represented by a square with an arrow pointing out of it).

c) Click on this icon and select with whom or where you’d like to share your content.

4. Connecting Devices

To manage connected devices or connect to new ones:

a) Click on the “Action Center” icon located at the far-right side of the taskbar (it looks like a speech balloon).

b) Then choose the “Connect” button.

c) A new window will pop-up showing the available devices; choose the desired one to connect.

5. Accessing Windows Project

Windows 10 offers a way to project your screen to another display wirelessly:

a) Open the “Action Center” (far-right side of the taskbar).

b) Click on “Project.”

c) A window will appear with different projection options, such as mirroring your display or extending it.

Conclusion

Although the Charms bar has been removed from Windows 10, its functionality has been incorporated into other parts of the operating system. By learning how to access these features more efficiently, you can continue maximizing your productivity in Windows 10.