## Astral Brings a Native Google Calendar Experience to Windows
Windows users don’t have many Google apps available in teh Microsoft Store, wich forces them to look for productivity tools like Notion and Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). Google Calendar is one of those popular Google services that many Windows users would love to use to access their PCs,but the Mountain View tech giant doesn’t offer an official version for Windows.
If you also miss Google Calendar on Windows, you can install it as a PWA. Though, no matter which option you choose, you won’t get the same experience as a true Windows app. If you want a native google Calendar app for Windows, Astral is perhaps the only one you can get, an
### key points:
* Astral offers a native Google calendar app for Windows with WinUI 3 and native notifications.
* V0.6.2 adds support for up to three Google accounts, custom notifications, and account ordering.
* Adds Zoom link previews, hardware-accelerated scrolling, an agenda flyout, and Microsoft Store availability.
Astral is a free, open-source Google Calendar app built with WinUI 3, offering a native Windows experience. The developer recently released version 0.6.2, bringing several improvements and new features.
Astral now supports up to three Google accounts, allowing users to manage multiple calendars seamlessly. Custom notifications are also included, giving users more control over how they are reminded of events.Account ordering lets users arrange their accounts as they prefer within the app.
Beyond account management, the update introduces Zoom link previews directly within event details, making it easier to join meetings. Hardware-accelerated scrolling has been implemented for smoother performance, and an agenda flyout provides a quick overview of upcoming events.
Astral is now available on the microsoft Store, making installation and updates more convenient. This release solidifies Astral as a compelling alternative for Windows users seeking a native Google Calendar experience.
astral App Gains Powerful New Google Calendar Features for Windows
Table of Contents
Astral, a popular windows calendar application, has received a important update bringing a host of new features designed to enhance the Google Calendar experience on desktop. The latest version aims to provide a robust and user-pleasant alternative to web-based calendar access, offering a native Windows experience with deep Google Calendar integration.
Enhanced Google Account Management
Astral’s developer team, as highlighted in a Reddit thread, has focused on improving account management. Users can now connect up to three separate Google accounts to the app, allowing for streamlined organization of multiple schedules. Furthermore, users can customize the order in which their accounts are displayed within the application.
Improved Meeting Integration and Performance
version 0.6.2 introduces support for Zoom meeting links, enabling users to view and join meetings directly from within the Astral app. This eliminates the need to switch between applications to participate in video conferences. To improve usability, especially with multiple calendars, Astral now utilizes hardware acceleration for smoother scrolling and overall performance.
A Familiar Agenda View
Astral offers an agenda view, accessible via the app icon in the system tray.This view presents a chronological list of past and upcoming events, mirroring the functionality of the Windows 10 Calendar flyout.For Windows 11 users who miss this feature in the newer Notification Center, Astral provides a comparable experience.
Native Windows Experience
Built with native WinUI 3, Astral boasts a modern look and feel that integrates seamlessly with the Windows operating system. As a native app, it also benefits from detailed, Windows-style notifications. This commitment to native integration results in an application that feels polished and responsive.
Where to download
You can download the Astral app from the official website or through the Microsoft Store.
Key Takeaways:
* Multiple Account Support: Connect up to three Google accounts.
* Zoom Integration: View and join Zoom meetings directly from the app.
* Hardware Acceleration: Improved performance with multiple calendars.
* Agenda View: A familiar chronological event list.
* Native WinUI 3 App: Modern design and seamless Windows integration.
Astral continues to evolve as a compelling calendar solution for Windows users heavily invested in the google ecosystem. With ongoing advancement and a focus on user experience, Astral is poised to become a leading choice for those seeking a powerful and visually appealing desktop calendar application.
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