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Microsoft announces plans to let you put the taskbar in Windows 11 pretty much anywhere you want
Winsage
May 19, 2026

Microsoft announces plans to let you put the taskbar in Windows 11 pretty much anywhere you want

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 by improving the configurability of the taskbar and Start menu. Users can now position the taskbar on any edge of the desktop and align the Start button and icons in various configurations. A vertical taskbar option is available in slim or wider variants, and a thinner taskbar is designed for lower resolution displays. The Start menu will feature section-level toggles to show or hide Pinned, Recommended, and All sections, along with options to adjust its size and conceal personal information. The Recommended section will be rebranded as Recent, with improved accuracy in displaying recently installed applications and files. These updates will first be rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel over the coming weeks, with a public release expected in the next few months.
Improving Windows quality: Making Taskbar and Start more personal
Winsage
May 15, 2026

Improving Windows quality: Making Taskbar and Start more personal

Microsoft is enhancing the Windows experience by focusing on performance, reliability, and craftsmanship, with a commitment to transparency about updates. The Start menu and taskbar are receiving particular attention, with new customization options being introduced for users in the Experimental channel. Users can now reposition the taskbar to any edge of the screen, customize icon alignment, and view every window at a glance with ungrouped icons. A more compact taskbar option will also be available for smaller screens. The Start menu will feature section-level toggles for easier customization, separate controls for file recommendations, size settings, and the option to hide user names for privacy. The Recommended section will be renamed Recent to better reflect its purpose. These features will be gradually rolled out, with user feedback being encouraged through the Feedback Hub.
Windows and Xbox rediscover user feedback and fans are wondering what took so long
Winsage
April 10, 2026

Windows and Xbox rediscover user feedback and fans are wondering what took so long

Microsoft has shifted its focus to better address user needs, revitalizing its Xbox Series X|S consoles and re-engaging with the gaming community through initiatives like the global Xbox FanFest. The company is also working to improve its relationship with Windows users by acknowledging past criticisms and planning to reinstate Windows Insider meetups and prioritize user-requested features. Despite these efforts, skepticism remains among observers of Microsoft's trajectory. Microsoft's relationship with OpenAI is complicated, with CEO Satya Nadella expressing concerns about backlash against AI integration. The company has invested over a billion dollars in OpenAI for exclusive access to AI models but may pursue legal action against OpenAI due to its collaborations with other tech giants. Microsoft's AI and cloud businesses are facing scrutiny from investors, with concerns about profitability and the sustainability of Azure operations. Nearly half of U.S. data centers planned for 2026 are at risk of cancellation, complicating Microsoft's AI ambitions. OpenAI's path to profitability is expected to be long, with projections suggesting it may not turn a profit until 2030. The competitive landscape, including rivals like Anthropic and alternatives from China, adds uncertainty. Legal challenges may arise from OpenAI's agreements with other companies, potentially affecting Microsoft's interests. Nadella's reference to "societal permission" indicates an awareness of Microsoft's public image, which has suffered. Xbox has faced community engagement issues, and Windows 11 has experienced public relations challenges and a decline in innovation. The costs associated with AI have been substantial, impacting Microsoft's reputation and consumer trust.
"Listening to how we can keep making it better for you": Windows Insider meetups are coming back after years away, connecting Windows 11 users with Microsoft
Winsage
April 9, 2026

“Listening to how we can keep making it better for you”: Windows Insider meetups are coming back after years away, connecting Windows 11 users with Microsoft

Pavan Davuluri, President of Windows at Microsoft, committed to improving user sentiment for Windows 11 by addressing pain points and listening to customer feedback. Microsoft has reinstated the vertical Taskbar and is scaling back the visibility of AI features like Copilot. The company is reviving Windows Insider meetups to engage more with users, with scheduled events in New York City, Hyderabad, Taipei, San Francisco, and London. Senior Editor Zac Bowden noted a decline in the appeal of the Windows Insider Program, and he advocates for the revival of a major annual Windows event.
Microsoft teases Windows 11's vertical taskbar — then deletes the video
Winsage
April 1, 2026

Microsoft teases Windows 11’s vertical taskbar — then deletes the video

Users will soon be able to reposition the taskbar along any edge of their screen in Windows 11, a feature similar to macOS. This functionality was hinted at in Microsoft's roadmap and briefly showcased in a now-removed video. The taskbar can currently be moved by dragging, but the new feature aims to refine this process. Microsoft has not confirmed if the right-click method demonstrated will be the final implementation, as the finalized version is expected to integrate with the Settings app. Additionally, users will have the option to resize the taskbar, which currently cannot be adjusted in physical dimensions. Microsoft executives have also discussed upcoming features like dark mode and updates to legacy UI elements.
Ex-Microsoft executive says he fought against the removal of the vertical taskbar in Windows 11
Winsage
February 18, 2026

Ex-Microsoft executive says he fought against the removal of the vertical taskbar in Windows 11

Microsoft is reportedly planning to reintroduce the ability to relocate and resize the Windows 11 taskbar, a feature that was removed and led to user dissatisfaction. Former Microsoft executive Mikhail Parakhin criticized the removal of the vertical taskbar, stating it enhances productivity. Other former employees, including Andy Young, have also expressed dissatisfaction with Windows 11's design, particularly the Start Menu's performance issues. Microsoft is acknowledging the need to address user concerns and "pain points" within Windows 11 as it considers restoring customization options.
Ex-Microsoft lead says he "fought hard" to save the vertical taskbar on Windows 11
Winsage
February 14, 2026

Ex-Microsoft lead says he “fought hard” to save the vertical taskbar on Windows 11

Windows 11 has limited Taskbar customization options, notably lacking the ability to reposition it along the screen's sides. Microsoft is reportedly reconsidering this stance and may reintroduce old Taskbar options. Former Microsoft executive Mikhail Parakhin supports retaining Taskbar customization features, highlighting their historical significance since 1995. Microsoft is shifting from an AI-centric development model to a maintenance-focused approach, responding to user feedback on performance and stability. Third-party tools are available for users seeking customization options in Windows 11.
Explained: Why you can't move Windows 11 taskbar like Windows 10, according to Microsoft
Winsage
December 19, 2025

Explained: Why you can’t move Windows 11 taskbar like Windows 10, according to Microsoft

Since the rollout of Windows 11, users have noted the absence of a movable taskbar, which was possible in Windows 10. Microsoft has not indicated plans to reintroduce this feature, as they believe it may not serve the majority of users. The taskbar in Windows 11 was developed from scratch without the code necessary for repositioning it. Microsoft’s data-driven approach prioritizes features that benefit the largest user base, leading to a focus on essential functionalities rather than customization options. Technical challenges arise from moving the taskbar, as it would require significant adjustments to app layouts and designs. Microsoft has instead restored drag-and-drop support on the taskbar and optimized it for smaller screens and touch devices. Recent updates have introduced AI-driven features, raising concerns about the feasibility of a movable taskbar as the focus shifts toward integrating AI rather than user customization.
5 Windhawk modules I couldn't use Windows 11 without
Winsage
May 21, 2025

5 Windhawk modules I couldn’t use Windows 11 without

Windhawk is a tool for customizing the Windows 11 interface, allowing users to make significant modifications to their operating system. It provides various mods, including: - Vertical Taskbar Mod: Restores the ability to reposition the taskbar and customize its width and jump list alignment. - Taskbar Labels Mod: Allows users to display labels for app icons, customize label text, combine apps, and adjust taskbar width, with options for increasing label font size. - Start Menu Syler Mod: Enables users to apply themes to the Start menu, including options that mimic the Windows 10 look. - Classic Explorer Navigation Bar Mod: Restores familiar items to the File Explorer navigation bar, enhancing user experience. - Classic Context Menu Mod: Reverts the context menu to a more familiar format, improving accessibility to options. Windhawk also offers a portable installation option and encourages users to create a restore point before installation to safeguard against potential issues. The platform features a marketplace for various modules, allowing users to customize their experience further.
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