Windows 11 is evolving, inching closer to the familiarity of its predecessor, Windows 10, with the recent introduction of a movable taskbar in the Release Preview Channel. This eagerly awaited feature allows users to position the taskbar at the top, left, or right of the screen, in addition to its traditional bottom placement. The return of this functionality comes after a notable absence, as Microsoft had previously removed it from Windows 11. After a period of testing within the Windows Insider Program, the feature has now made its way to the Release Preview Channel, signaling a potential broader rollout in the near future.
In addition to the movable taskbar, the Release Preview brings several other enhancements aimed at improving user experience. Among these is a compact taskbar option that features smaller icons and a reduced height, allowing for a more spacious desktop environment. Microsoft has yet to announce a specific timeline for when these updates will be available to the general public, but their presence in the Release Preview suggests that users may not have to wait long.
Another noteworthy update is the customization options for the Start menu, which now allow users to select between small and large layouts, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. Furthermore, updates to Windows Search are designed to enhance reliability, providing users with the ability to filter out Microsoft Store and web suggestions from their search results.
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The Release Preview also introduces features that are likely to resonate with system administrators. One such feature is Administrator protection, which enables users to perform elevated tasks using just-in-time privileges. While this feature is disabled by default, it can be activated through Intune or Group Policy, offering an additional layer of control for IT departments.
In a significant move, Microsoft has officially retired the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC). This change may be met with relief by some, as WMIC has been a tool exploited by malicious actors to execute commands and navigate compromised systems. Although WMIC has been deprecated for some time and was already absent by default in new installations of Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, its removal from the Features on Demand list marks a definitive end. For those still utilizing WMIC, it is important to note that WMI remains unaffected, and Microsoft recommends PowerShell as the preferred alternative moving forward.
