Activate Aero Glass Effects in Windows 11 Similar to macOS Liquid Glass

While Windows 11 has moved away from the Aero Glass aesthetics we once enjoyed with Windows Vista, it’s still possible to recreate a similar visual flair reminiscent of macOS Liquid Glass. Thanks to an innovative open-source application called DWMBlurGlass, users can effectively inject a stunning blur effect behind various title bars through the Windows Desktop Window Manager (DWM).By diving into the intricate realm of DWM function calls, you can achieve that coveted macOS-style translucency on your Windows 11 setup.

So why is the Aero Glass effect making a comeback into the conversation? Apple unveiled its stunning “Liquid Glass” design during WWDC 2025, reigniting the charm of glassy interfaces. For many Windows enthusiasts, this beautifully sleek aesthetic harkens back to the glory days of Windows Vista and 7, a design language that has evolved considerably over the years.

The drive to revive the Aero Glass effect gained momentum when developer Maplespe created DWMBlurGlass, an open-source tool available on GitHub. Even though Windows has evolved past Aero Glass, with Mica and Acrylic effects now being the standard, this application provides a fascinating workaround.

Recent tests conducted by Windows Latest confirm that DWMBlurGlass continues to function effectively, allowing Windows 11 users to regain that beloved glassy effect with ease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Activating the Aero Effect on Windows 11

Ready to transform your Windows 11 experience? Start by downloading DWMBlurGlass from GitHub and follow these detailed instructions:

Extract the downloaded zip file. Move the folder to the Program Files directory on your drive for easy access.
Navigate to the Release folder within the extracted files.
Launch the DWMBlurGlass application.
Click the Install button within the app; if any issues arise, proceed to the Symbol tab and hit the Download button to retrieve essential symbol files from Microsoft’s official servers.
Switch to the Advanced tab where you’ll find an array of options for blur methods.
Select the CustomBlur option under Blur Method, which provides the beloved Aero and Blur effects. Note that other blur types focus primarily on Mica or basic blur variations.
To achieve the Aero effect, click the corresponding selection that emphasizes transparency, closely resembling the classic Windows Vista aesthetic, now gaining traction among macOS users.
After making your selections, return to the main window and click Save to activate your new settings.

Once completed, applications such as File Explorer, Paint, Control Panel, and Task Manager will exhibit the new Aero effect, which some users might find reminiscent of the macOS Liquid Glass style.

Interestingly, while legacy apps like Notepad and Paint adapted well to the Aero design, modern applications such as Microsoft Store and Calculator have stuck with the conventional Mica effect.

While it may not be advisable to completely force a return to Aero Glass effects across Windows 11 due to the potential for visual inconsistencies, for those who relish customizing their operating systems, this is an exceptional method to explore.

Keep in mind that future Windows updates might disrupt this modification. However, given the open-source nature of DWMBlurGlass, community support should help keep this utility functional moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is DWMBlurGlass safe to use with Windows 11?

Yes, DWMBlurGlass is an open-source application that has been tested within the community. It’s recommended to download it from reputable sources like GitHub to ensure you obtain the latest and safest version.

2. Will using Aero Glass impact system performance?

While using Aero Glass effects might create a visually appealing desktop, some users have reported minor impacts on performance, especially with older hardware. If you experience performance issues, consider adjusting the blur effects or disabling them altogether.

3. What happens if a Windows update breaks the DWMBlurGlass functionality?

Since DWMBlurGlass is open-source, the community is often quick to address compatibility issues following Windows updates. Regularly check the GitHub repository for updates or patches from the developer.

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