Model-driven Power Apps get a cleaner header and navigation in August
Reviewed by Helen Jones
Microsoft plans general availability in August 2026 for a streamlined header and navigation experience in model-driven Power Apps. The change has been in public preview since May 2025 and stays opt-in through an app setting called Header and navigation refresh, with Auto, Yes, or No. The update brings a modern app header closer to Microsoft 365 patterns, a simpler sitemap, and condensed page headers that free vertical space on forms and views. Feedback from preview on command spacing and header size is included in the GA version. By default, Auto leaves the new shell off for most existing apps. Apps created using Plans are the main exception. This is separate from the modern look that already removed the classic UI toggle.
Most internal builders still live in canvas apps on SharePoint lists. Model-driven shells felt heavier and more product-like, with chrome that ate space and navigation that looked unlike the rest of Microsoft 365. When a team needed dense forms or a structured app over Dataverse, the old header tax was part of why the experience felt dated next to Teams or Outlook. After August, makers can turn on a lighter shell without waiting for a forced flip. More room on the form, faster path through the sitemap, and a look that matches the rest of the suite. It does not fix canvas layout pain, delegation, or SharePoint limits. It only matters if you already run model-driven apps or are deciding whether that path is worth learning.
Analysis
Treat this as a watch item, not a reason to rebuild. If you already have a model-driven app in your environment, open a copy, set Header and navigation refresh to Yes, and check whether forms and views feel less cramped for real users. If you only ship canvas apps on SharePoint, leave it alone until a genuine model-driven requirement appears.
Source note
Pulse published by Collab365 Spaces, reviewed by Helen Jones on . Cite as "Model-driven Power Apps get a cleaner header and navigation in August", Collab365 Spaces. 2 sources referenced.