Microsoft Tests Adjustable Taskbar and Start Menu in Windows 11
Microsoft has finally introduced a resizable taskbar and customizable Start menu to Windows 11 in the latest preview version, rolling out to Insiders in the Experimental channel. This update is part of Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8493, which allows users to configure the taskbar to use smaller buttons and move it to the bottom, top, left, or right side of the screen.
According to Diego Baca, partner director of Microsoft Design, the ability to move the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen has been one of the most requested features. With this update, when the small taskbar is enabled, users get smaller icons, a shorter taskbar, and more vertical space for their apps. No restart or sign-out is required to apply these changes.
Customizing the Taskbar
To change the taskbar position, Insiders have to go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors, where they will find this new option alongside the taskbar icon alignment option. The taskbar size can be adjusted in the same dialog by checking the Show smaller taskbar buttons option, which reduces the height of both the icons and the taskbar.
Start Menu Customization
Microsoft is also rolling out changes to give Windows users more control over the Start menu, allowing them to toggle off recommended content and customize its size. These controls are designed to work together, said Diego Baca. If users want a Start menu with just their pinned apps, they can turn off Recommended and All. If they want a full Start that shows everything, they can leave it all on.
However, Microsoft will maintain a list of recently installed apps, as it is a key way for users to discover new applications alongside the Microsoft Store. Furthermore, Microsoft is improving file relevance by adjusting how files are displayed and ordered to prioritize the most relevant items, and will also allow users to hide their name and profile picture from the Start menu.
New Start Menu Settings
Earlier this month, Microsoft also announced that it's testing a modern Windows Run dialog with dark mode support, which should be faster than the legacy version. This new Run dialog will also remove the Browse button, which was used by only 0.0038% of users in a sample of 35 million who opened Windows Run. Microsoft says the modern Run will not be enabled automatically, and users will need to turn it on manually in Settings > Advanced Settings.
Windows 11 System Performance Improvements
Windows president Pavan Davuluri announced some of these changes in March, when Microsoft pledged to improve Windows 11 system performance and make it more responsive and consistent. In addition to taskbar and Start menu improvements, the company plans to reduce notifications, simplify Windows settings, and ensure that device setup on new Windows PCs requires fewer reboots.
Microsoft is also working on improving Windows search, aiming for a more consistent experience across the Start menu, taskbar, File Explorer, and Settings.
As part of this effort, we are evolving how Windows is built behind the scenes to raise the quality bar and deliver innovation where it matters most, shaped by the feedback we are hearing from you, said Davuluri.
- Microsoft is testing a resizable taskbar and customizable Start menu in Windows 11.
- The taskbar can be moved to the bottom, top, left, or right side of the screen.
- Users can toggle off recommended content and customize the Start menu size.
- Microsoft is improving file relevance and allowing users to hide their name and profile picture from the Start menu.
- The company is also working on improving Windows search and system performance.
For more information, visit the Microsoft website or check out the BleepingComputer website for the latest news and updates.
Source: BleepingComputer