Microsoft’s ongoing enhancements to Windows 11 are shaping it into a more refined operating system, potentially surpassing its predecessor, Windows 10. One notable improvement is the introduction of a feature that allows users to restore a smaller taskbar, addressing a long-standing user request. While the taskbar in Windows 11 has faced criticism compared to its Windows 10 counterpart, this new option provides users with separate control over the icons displayed.
In Windows 10, users enjoyed a toggle that effectively changed the size of the taskbar itself, a feature that was notably absent in the initial release of Windows 11. Microsoft had initially stated that the taskbar was rebuilt from the ground up, which meant that not all features from Windows 10 would be available at launch. However, last year, the company introduced a feature to make taskbar icons smaller, though it did not address the overall size of the taskbar.
The existing “show smaller taskbar buttons” option, while functional, does not fulfill the desire for a smaller taskbar. Instead, it focuses solely on reducing the size of the icons, allowing users to fit more icons within the same taskbar space. This toggle provides three settings: never, always, and when the taskbar is full, offering some flexibility to users.
Fortunately, Microsoft has taken user feedback to heart. A recent update, currently available to testers, has introduced a new Taskbar size setting that allows users to adjust the size of the taskbar itself. Selecting the “Small” option in the personalization settings results in a thinner taskbar, which in turn reduces the size of the icons as well. This dual-option approach gives users greater control over their workspace compared to the simpler toggle available in Windows 10.
More taskbar features are coming to Windows 11
In addition to the taskbar size adjustments, Windows 11 is set to receive at least ten new features, including the much-anticipated “movable taskbar.” This feature, currently in preview, allows users to position the taskbar on any side of the screen, similar to Windows 10. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those who prefer quick access to their applications and tabs.
The Start menu is also undergoing enhancements, with users gaining the ability to adjust its size from “Dynamic” to a smaller format. Furthermore, Microsoft is taking steps to eliminate ads from the Start menu. Recent builds have already shown progress in this area, with the renaming of the “Recommended” section to “Recent” and the removal of ads and Store integration, allowing for a more streamlined focus on local files.