Windows 11 Taskbar Gains Full Edge Positioning for Insiders
Microsoft is rolling out taskbar positioning to any screen edge along with related personalization options to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel. The changes address long-standing user requests for flexibility in one of the operating system's core interfaces while noting several features still under development.
The updates focus on both the taskbar and Start menu, aiming to provide more flexibility to personalize these experiences. Several changes are rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel over the coming weeks, with multiple features becoming available starting today.
Users can now position the taskbar on any edge of the screen: top, bottom, left or right. For each position, icon alignment options include top-aligned or centered for left or right taskbar placements, and left-aligned or centered when positioned on the top or bottom. Start, Search and other flyouts will open relative to the taskbar's new location, such as opening from the top when the taskbar sits there.
A vertical taskbar with "Never combine" buttons and labels enabled will display each app window as a separate labeled button. This allows users to see every window at a glance. The company notes this can help developers reclaim vertical screen space to view more code, while accessibility or ergonomics may make a top position preferable for some users.
To access the new settings, users go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors, where the taskbar position option appears alongside taskbar icon alignment. The post includes screenshots demonstrating left-aligned, top-aligned and vertical configurations with labels.
Microsoft is continuing work on visual polish, performance improvements and known issues with this release. Features not yet included include support for auto-hide and tablet-optimized taskbar in alternate positions. Touch gestures for alternate positions remain in progress, and search boxes are not supported in alternate positions, appearing as a search icon instead.
The company is evaluating additional capabilities such as different taskbar positions per monitor and drag and drop functionality. Its stated focus is delivering core functionality while keeping the experience simple, predictable and free from accidental taskbar movement. The post also references plans for a smaller taskbar, noting that Windows 11 introduced a roomier default to support more states, features and improved touch targets that can impact smaller screens.
Expert Take: Windows administrators should test these Experimental channel taskbar options with developer and power users to assess productivity gains from vertical layouts and relative flyout positioning before considering broader deployment.
EXPERT TAKE
Windows administrators should test these Experimental channel taskbar options with developer and power users to assess productivity gains from vertical layouts and relative flyout positioning before considering broader deployment.
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