Windows 11 users have long awaited the ability to reposition their taskbar, and Microsoft is finally delivering on that promise. In the latest update rolling out to Windows insiders, users will have the flexibility to place the taskbar at the top, bottom, left, or right of their screens, reminiscent of the functionality available in Windows 10.
Windows 11 users can finally move the taskbar
To access this new feature, users must be running the latest experimental build of Windows 11. Once updated, they can right-click on the taskbar and navigate to Taskbar settings, where a new option for Taskbar behaviors will allow them to select their preferred position. Microsoft Design Director Diego Baca highlights the benefits of this change, noting that developers may find value in reclaiming vertical screen space by moving the taskbar to the side. The customization options cater to individual preferences, enhancing both accessibility and organization.
More changes
Alongside the ability to reposition the taskbar, several additional tweaks are being introduced. Users can now choose how the Start button aligns based on the taskbar’s location. For instance, if the taskbar is positioned at the top or bottom, users can opt for either left-aligned or centered. Conversely, if the taskbar is on the left or right, they can choose between top-aligned or centered. Taskbar icons will also adapt accordingly, with the Start menu opening from the top when the taskbar is placed there. To facilitate easier navigation between open windows, users can adjust the setting for “Combine taskbar buttons and hide labels,” ensuring that window names remain visible.
Moreover, Microsoft has enhanced the option to reduce the taskbar’s size. By accessing Taskbar behaviors under Taskbar settings, users can select the “Show smaller taskbar buttons” option, resulting in a more compact appearance without requiring a restart.
There are a few limitations, for now
However, there are some limitations to be aware of. Currently, the auto-hide and tablet-optimized taskbar settings are not supported in alternate positions. Additionally, touch gestures for these new locations are still under development, and search boxes will only appear as icons for the time being. Microsoft is also exploring further enhancements, such as allowing different taskbar positions for multiple monitors and enabling drag-and-drop functionality for icons.
Start menu changes
In addition to taskbar modifications, users can expect four notable changes to the Windows 11 Start menu, which will be rolling out to insiders in the coming weeks. First, users will have the option to show or hide the Pinned and Recommended sections independently. Second, the ability to disable file recommendations in the Start menu will no longer affect recent files in other areas. Third, users will gain control over the Start menu’s size, choosing between Small and Large options. Lastly, privacy-conscious users can opt to hide their name and profile picture in the Start menu, enhancing their discretion during presentations or screen sharing.
How to try
To experience these new features, users must enroll in the Windows Insider Program and ensure they are running the latest Experimental Windows 11 build. If the options are not yet visible, it may be due to the phased rollout by Microsoft. While the timeline for these updates reaching the broader Windows 11 user base remains uncertain, the transition from the Experimental to Beta channels typically spans several months to a year. Nevertheless, with Microsoft’s commitment to refining Windows 11, there is optimism for a more expedited rollout.
A more user-friendly Windows 11
Amidst user feedback expressing concerns over Microsoft’s focus on AI at the expense of addressing existing OS issues, the company has pledged to tackle long-standing problems to enhance Windows 11’s reliability and user-friendliness. The taskbar and Start menu, both critical components of the user experience, are set for significant improvements, particularly as Windows 10 support has ended. As Microsoft continues to prioritize these enhancements, users can look forward to a more tailored and efficient operating system.
