Spare-hand

Inspiration

Microsoft removed Windows 11’s top drop-down file tray because it kept popping up accidentally when people were just moving files around. Since I regularly relied on it to throw files at Quick Share and LocalSend, I decided to build my own version—one that only shows up when you actually ask for it.

What it does

Spare Hand is a lightweight, open-source Windows utility that gives you a contextual drop tray on demand. Just drag a file, double-tap Alt, and a small tray opens right next to your cursor:

• Send: Instantly route files to Quick Share or LocalSend (via direct protocol integration so the desktop app isn't required).
• Move to: Quickly drop files onto your Desktop or customize target folders using standard Windows Explorer rules and progress dialogs.
• Hold Library: Double-tap Alt with nothing held to open a shelf of your temporarily held files and auto-captured screenshots (from the Snipping Tool or print screen shortcuts), complete with real thumbnails and zero file duplication.

How we built it

Built in C# / .NET 10 utilizing the Windows App SDK, WinUIEx, and the Windows Community Toolkit. It is styled using Microsoft's PowerToys design language—complete with native acrylic backgrounds and lightweight pop-up mechanics—to maintain an idle memory footprint in the single digits of MB.

Challenges we ran into

Handling global input hooks to capture a double-tap trigger (Alt, Ctrl, or Shift) mid-drag without interfering with normal workflows or conflicting with existing system macros (like PowerToys' Find My Mouse) required meticulous state management and careful UI rendering rules.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

• Achieving single-digit MB idle memory usage for near-zero system overhead.
• Engineering a native LocalSend protocol client directly into the utility to eliminate external dependencies.
• Creating a 100% privacy-first, zero-telemetry tool with no nags, paywalls, or hidden tracking.

What we learned

Analyzing user feedback and reviews for existing file-shelf tools revealed that users prioritize frictionless cross-device sharing above all else, and despise being hit with paywalls or intrusive nags. Designing for extreme reliability and seamless system integration made all the difference.

What's next for Spare-hand

• Expanding tested compatibility across older Windows 10 builds.
• Adding customizable destination tiles for user-defined folder shortcuts.
• Gathering community feedback with an eye toward potential future integration into Microsoft PowerToys.

Built With

• c#