Microsoft is reportedly exploring a new feature for its taskbar, tentatively named “companions,” which may introduce artificial intelligence capabilities to the Windows experience. Insights from Windows Latest suggest that this initiative is in its early stages, with details still emerging. Recent findings by Xeno on X have unveiled references to this Companions feature, hinting at its potential alignment with AI functionalities.
Phantom, a well-regarded Microsoft analyst, noted that mentions of companions first appeared in Windows Server Build 26454. Furthermore, the latest preview builds of Windows 11 include a reference to “Agentic Companions” for the taskbar, reinforcing the notion that AI actions and these companions could be interconnected. A specific string in a recent Insider build states, “Controls visibility of agentic companions on the taskbar,” indicating that users may have the ability to manage these features directly from their settings. However, it is important to note that these features are not yet operational within Windows.
Bizarre taskbar idea that never shipped
In the past, Microsoft had ambitions to introduce a “recommendations” feature for the taskbar, aimed at enhancing user engagement with Bing and web content. This initiative was spearheaded by Mikhail Parakhin, who previously led the Copilot and Bing projects. The feature was reportedly close to public testing, with preview builds containing references to controlling the visibility of recommendations on the taskbar. Such recommendations would have likely suggested apps, websites, or snap groups, but the project was ultimately abandoned following Parakhin’s departure.
Although there were indications of this feature within the Windows Registry, Microsoft never activated the necessary files to enable it, leading to its eventual shelving.
Other taskbar-related features coming to Windows 11
Beyond the potential for AI companions, Microsoft is also testing several other enhancements related to the taskbar. One notable feature is the support for “shared audio,” allowing users to connect multiple audio devices to a single PC and play music through each simultaneously. This capability is particularly relevant for Bluetooth devices, as newer adapters facilitate audio output across multiple channels.
Additionally, the taskbar will soon include a clock that displays seconds, a long-awaited update for the Calendar flyout. Currently, users can only view hours and minutes, but this enhancement is set to roll out in the coming weeks, with testing already underway among Windows Insiders. This feature has already been made available to Windows 10 users.
