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Independent Desktop Icons per Virtual Desktop #134

@2061360308

Description

@2061360308

VirtualSpace Feature Request: Independent Desktop Icons per Virtual Desktop

Feature Request Description

I would like to request a new feature for VirtualSpace: the ability to have independent desktop icon sets for each virtual desktop in Windows 10/11. This would allow users to have completely different desktop layouts and icon collections on each virtual desktop, enhancing organization and productivity.

Use Case and Benefits

  • Context-specific workspaces: Different virtual desktops could be organized for specific tasks (e.g., Work, Gaming, Personal, Study)
  • Reduced clutter: Only relevant icons appear on each desktop
  • Improved organization: Better visual separation between different activity contexts
  • Enhanced productivity: Easier to focus on task-specific resources without visual distractions

Technical Implementation Idea

I've created a proof-of-concept Python project called "VirtualIconGuard" that demonstrates this functionality works by:

  1. Creating separate desktop folders for each virtual desktop
  2. Using Windows API (SHSetKnownFolderPath) to dynamically switch the system desktop location when virtual desktops change
  3. Preserving icon layouts using the SelectAndPositionItem method for each desktop
  4. Monitoring desktop switching events via pyvda library

Current Project Status

My Python prototype successfully demonstrates the concept, but I don't have C# experience to contribute directly to VirtualSpace. The prototype shows:

  • The feature is technically feasible
  • The user experience is smooth with only minor visual delays during desktop switching
  • The implementation is compatible with Windows 10/11 native virtual desktop system

Request

I believe this feature would be a valuable addition to VirtualSpace, making it even more powerful for users who rely on virtual desktops for productivity. As I cannot contribute code directly, I'm hoping the VirtualSpace development team might consider implementing this functionality.

I'd be happy to share more details about my Python implementation or assist with testing if this feature is considered for development.

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