Apart from the dedicated power users who thrive in the Run command environment, and the modern enthusiasts who rely on tools like PowerToys Command Palette and Raycast, the Start menu and taskbar are the two most frequently interacted elements in Windows 11. Recognizing this, Microsoft has embarked on a journey to make these features more personal and user-friendly.
Since the launch of Windows 11, both the Start menu and taskbar have faced significant criticism. Users have expressed frustration over the inability to reposition the taskbar, a feature that was available in Windows 10. Microsoft has provided explanations for this change, yet it has not quelled the backlash. Additionally, the MSN feed that appears when hovering over the weather widget and the absence of a true compact mode in the taskbar have further fueled discontent.
Moreover, a bug that caused a duplicate Task Manager to open from the taskbar, leading to performance issues, was recently addressed following user reports. The Start menu itself has also been a source of dissatisfaction, with complaints about its excessive size, lack of customization options, and overall performance. Testing has revealed that the new Start menu consumes a considerable amount of vertical screen space, dominating the interface.
New features coming to the Windows 11 taskbar
In a significant shift, Microsoft is set to introduce the long-requested ability to move the taskbar. Users will soon have the option to position the taskbar at the top, left, or right of the screen, with icon alignment options that adjust accordingly. This feature, which has been a staple in previous versions of Windows, marks a return to user flexibility after five years.
When the taskbar is positioned on the left or right, icons can be aligned to the top or center. If placed at the top, users can choose between left-aligned or centered icons. For those who prefer their open applications labeled and ungrouped, a vertical taskbar with the “Never combine” option will allow for easy identification of each window.
To access this feature, users can navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors. While Microsoft is still refining additional functionalities such as auto-hide support and search boxes in alternate positions, these will not be included in the initial rollout.
Another eagerly anticipated feature is the introduction of a genuinely smaller taskbar. Previously, Microsoft had only reduced icon sizes without reclaiming vertical space. The new “Show smaller taskbar buttons” toggle will not only shrink icon sizes but also decrease the physical height of the taskbar, offering a meaningful gain in screen real estate for users with smaller laptops.
Currently available in the Insider Experimental channel, these features are expected to roll out to all PCs in the coming weeks. Additionally, the Shared Audio feature is gradually being introduced to all PCs updated with the May 2026 Optional Windows 11 KB5089573 (build 26200.8524). This feature allows two pairs of headphones to connect to the same PC simultaneously, enhancing the multimedia experience for users.
Furthermore, Microsoft is addressing the Widgets board, aiming for a quieter taskbar experience. The MSN feed will soon be disabled by default, and the intrusive “Open on hover” behavior will be eliminated, allowing users to prioritize their pinned mini-apps instead of being bombarded with tabloid news and ads.
What’s new in the Windows 11 Start menu
The upcoming changes to the Start menu are equally noteworthy, directly responding to user feedback regarding its size and customization limitations. One of the most practical additions is the introduction of section-level toggles, enabling users to independently hide or show the Pinned, Recent, and All Apps sections. This straightforward approach eliminates the need for buried settings.
Users can now customize their Start menu experience by choosing to display only pinned apps or everything, depending on their preferences. Microsoft is also rectifying a long-standing issue where disabling the Recommended section would inadvertently erase File Explorer jump list history. With the new update, a separate control for file recommendations will allow users to manage their Start feed without affecting recent files elsewhere.
Another exciting enhancement is the ability to resize the Start menu. Users can now select between Small (6 app columns) or Large (8 app columns), moving away from the automatic layout that often felt oversized on smaller screens. A new privacy mode will also be introduced, hiding account names and profile pictures from the Start menu, which is particularly useful during presentations or screen sharing.
The “Recommended” section will be renamed to “Recent,” a change that aligns more accurately with its function of displaying recently installed apps and files. This renaming is accompanied by improvements in file relevancy, ensuring that what appears reflects users’ recent activities.
The biggest improvement to the Start menu is coming soon
Looking ahead, the Start menu is set to undergo a complete transition to WinUI, moving away from the versioned “WinUI 3” designation. This shift is built on a new modular engine, promising a much-needed responsiveness overhaul. Early groundwork for this transition has already been laid, with the introduction of the Low Latency Profile CPU boost, which prioritizes the Start menu engine to minimize micro-stutters.
This foundational update is a significant commitment from Microsoft, signaling a renewed focus on enhancing the core user experience. As the company addresses long-standing criticisms regarding bloatware and neglect of essential features, these changes represent a hopeful step towards a more streamlined and user-centric operating system.
