Since the launch of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft drastically eliminated many cherished customization features. They did this to accommodate a massive structural overhaul of the system interface. Among these changes, one restriction frustrates veteran users the most. They deeply despise the forced docking of the Taskbar to the bottom of the screen. Now, nearly five years after the debut of Windows 11, this lost classic feature may finally return.
Beta Channel Testing Opens: Place Your Taskbar Anywhere
Recently, Microsoft began expanding the testing scope for custom Taskbar positions. Initially, they offered this feature only in experimental rings since May. However, they recently released a new preview build on July 31. Microsoft has now officially pushed this capability to the much more stable Beta Channel.
Are you currently an active Beta Channel tester? If so, you can navigate to Settings and access Personalization. Next, select the Taskbar behaviors menu to adjust your layout. Here, you can freely pin your Taskbar to any screen edge. Consequently, the operating system will automatically adjust notifications and pop-up menus. Everything adapts flawlessly to match your chosen visual orientation.
Imperfect Execution: Certain Advanced Features Remain Limited
Nevertheless, this functionality clearly remains in a preliminary polishing phase. Microsoft explains that moving your Taskbar temporarily disables certain tools. For instance, the convenient auto-hide function becomes completely unavailable. Furthermore, the system drops support for touch-optimized dynamic scaling. These specific features currently only work in the standard bottom position.
An Added Bonus: Compact Mode Returns
In addition to positional freedom, Microsoft simultaneously introduced another requested feature. They finally brought back the beloved Compact Mode to the Beta Channel. Users can now select a Small option within their Taskbar settings.
Consequently, the overall height and embedded icons shrink down significantly. The Start menu, search box, and System Tray also scale proportionally. This adjustment proves incredibly convenient for individuals using smaller laptops. The default Windows 11 Taskbar height feels surprisingly large. Therefore, it easily consumes valuable vertical workspace on compact displays.
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