
Microsoft is giving the Windows 11 taskbar a makeover with the latest 22H2 preview build, introducing a slew of new features and customization options designed to improve user experience and workflow. These changes, currently available to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel, offer a glimpse into the future of Windows 11 and how Microsoft is responding to user feedback. From a redesigned search box to the return of “never combined” mode for taskbar icons, this update is packed with exciting changes.
This update addresses some of the most common complaints users have had about the Windows 11 taskbar since its launch. Why is Microsoft focusing on the taskbar? Well, it’s the primary way users interact with their operating system, launching applications, switching between windows, and accessing system functions. A more efficient and customizable taskbar translates to a smoother and more personalized Windows experience. So, what exactly is new, and how will these changes impact your daily workflow? Let’s dive in and explore the key features of this Windows 11 taskbar refresh.
A Modernized Search Experience
The search box, a staple of the Windows taskbar, has been given a modern visual refresh. Gone is the solid search bar, replaced with a sleek, rounded search icon that expands into a full search bar when clicked. This design change aligns with the overall aesthetic of Windows 11, emphasizing rounded corners and a cleaner look.
Personally, I find this new search box to be a welcome change. It feels less intrusive and more in tune with the modern design language of Windows 11. The transition between the icon and the full search bar is smooth and intuitive. However, some users might miss the persistent search bar, arguing that it provided quicker access to search functionality. It will be interesting to see how this design change is received by the wider Windows user base once it rolls out to the stable channel.
“Never Combined” Makes a Comeback
One of the more controversial changes in Windows 11 was the removal of the “never combined” option for taskbar icons. This forced all application icons to group together, which some users found to be less efficient and harder to navigate. Microsoft has listened to the feedback and is bringing back the “never combined” mode in this 22H2 preview build.
This is a significant win for users who prefer the classic taskbar behavior. Having the option to see all open windows individually, without grouping, can be crucial for multitasking and quickly identifying the desired application. I, for one, am thrilled about this change. I heavily rely on the “never combined” mode for my workflow, and its absence in the initial release of Windows 11 was a major drawback for me.
Improved Taskbar Overflow
With multiple applications open, the Windows 11 taskbar can quickly become crowded. To address this, Microsoft has introduced an improved overflow menu. When the taskbar runs out of space, a “three dots” icon appears, giving you access to a neatly organized list of all the overflowed apps.
This new overflow menu is a significant improvement over the previous implementation. It provides a clear and organized view of all your minimized or running apps that don’t fit on the main taskbar. This makes it easier to manage and switch between a large number of applications, especially on smaller screens or when multitasking with numerous windows.
Enhanced Tablet Optimization
Microsoft is continuing to refine the tablet experience in Windows 11. The 22H2 preview introduces a new taskbar state optimized for tablet use. When you detach a keyboard from a 2-in-1 device or switch to tablet mode, the taskbar automatically collapses into a slimmed-down version, providing more screen real estate for your apps.
This collapsed taskbar prioritizes touch interaction, with larger icons and more spacing between them. A simple swipe up expands the taskbar to its full size, giving you access to all your pinned apps and system tray icons. This dynamic adaptation between desktop and tablet modes makes Windows 11 more versatile and adaptable to different usage scenarios.
Notification Badges on Taskbar Icons
To keep you informed at a glance, Windows 11 22H2 will display notification badges directly on taskbar icons. This means you’ll see a small badge with a number indicating unread notifications on the icons of apps like Mail, Calendar, or any other app that supports this feature.
This is a subtle but useful addition. It eliminates the need to constantly open the notification center to check for updates. The badges provide a visual cue, ensuring you don’t miss important notifications. This feature is becoming increasingly common across different operating systems and applications, and its inclusion in Windows 11 is a welcome move.
Customization Options and Future Possibilities
While the 22H2 preview build focuses on functionality, it also hints at increased customization options for the taskbar in the future. Microsoft is exploring the possibility of allowing users to ungroup app icons in the system tray, similar to the “never combined” option for the main taskbar.
This would provide even more control over the taskbar’s appearance and organization. Imagine being able to customize the system tray to display only the icons you use most frequently, or arranging them in a specific order. This level of customization could significantly enhance the user experience and make Windows 11 feel even more personal.
Furthermore, Microsoft is experimenting with different layouts and configurations for the taskbar, including the possibility of moving it to the top or sides of the screen. This could cater to users who prefer a different taskbar placement or those who want to experiment with alternative desktop layouts.
What This Means for You
The Windows 11 22H2 preview build demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to refining and improving the user experience. The taskbar refresh addresses some long-standing user requests and introduces new features that enhance productivity and customization.
Whether you’re a power user who relies on “never combined” mode or someone who appreciates a cleaner and more modern aesthetic, these changes are likely to have a positive impact on your Windows 11 experience. It’s also exciting to see Microsoft actively exploring new customization options and considering user feedback in shaping the future of the taskbar.
As these features continue to be developed and refined, we can expect even more exciting changes to the Windows 11 taskbar in the months to come. This update is a step in the right direction, making Windows 11 more user-friendly, efficient, and personalized.
Keep in mind that these features are currently in preview and subject to change before the official release of Windows 11 22H2. However, they provide a promising glimpse into the future of the Windows 11 taskbar and how Microsoft is working to create a more powerful and customizable operating system for its users.
How to Try the New Taskbar Features
If you’re eager to experience these new taskbar features firsthand, you can join the Windows Insider Program and enroll your device in the Dev Channel. However, be aware that Dev Channel builds are early releases and may contain bugs or instability.
It’s generally recommended to install preview builds on a secondary device or virtual machine to avoid any potential disruptions to your primary workflow. If you choose to install the preview build, make sure to back up your data before proceeding.
The Windows 11 22H2 update is shaping up to be a significant release, with the taskbar refresh being just one of the many improvements and new features in store. We can anticipate further refinements to the user interface, new productivity tools, and enhanced gaming capabilities.
Microsoft is clearly listening to user feedback and actively working to make Windows 11 the best operating system it can be. As Windows Insiders continue to test and provide feedback on these preview builds, we can expect even more exciting developments in the lead-up to the official release of Windows 11 22H2. Stay tuned for further updates and insights as Microsoft continues to shape the future of Windows