A magnetoresistive apparatus and method of operation with improved switching characteristics is provided. Switching of a magnetic direction of a magnetic layer of a magnetoresistive bit is promoted by parallel rotation of local magnetic direction of ends of the bit toward alignment with a hard-axis of the bit. Thus, an embodiment provides for expanded hard-axis magnetic volume of the bit ends to support hard-axis magnetization through bit shape alteration or doping, for example. A method provides for applying a hard-axis magnetic field to the bit ends for initiating switching and applying an easy-axis magnetic field for completing switching.