Microsoft Tests Repositionable Taskbar and Resizable Start Menu in Windows 11
Microsoft is rolling out a test update to Windows 11 Insiders in the Experimental channel that allows users to place the taskbar on any side of the screen and select smaller taskbar and Start menu sizes. The changes also include toggles to show or hide sections of the Start menu and an option to hide the user name and profile picture. Microsoft first teased the movable taskbar in March.
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investopedia.comMicrosoft is testing changes to the Windows 11 taskbar and Start menu that will let users reposition the taskbar and adjust its size. The update, now rolling out to Windows 11 Insiders in the Experimental channel, allows the taskbar to be placed on the bottom, top, left or right side of the screen.
Users can also adjust the alignment of icons inside the taskbar and open the Start menu from the chosen position. Insiders can select a shorter taskbar option, which the company said could be useful on devices with smaller displays. The test build also offers “Small” or “Large” choices for the Start menu size.
The Start menu’s layout will include new toggles to show or hide the Pinned, Recommended and All sections. Microsoft is renaming the Recommended section to Recent to better reflect that it shows recently installed apps and recently used files. Users will also be able to hide their name and profile picture from the Start menu.
The company said this could be helpful when sharing a screen during a presentation. These features are scheduled to reach the Experimental Channel in the coming weeks. The company first teased its movable taskbar in March as part of efforts to rebuild trust among users.
“We have talked about earning trust through steady and visible progress,” Microsoft design director Diego Baca said in the blog post.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- March 2026
Microsoft first teased its movable taskbar.
1 sourceThe Verge - May 15, 2026
Microsoft begins rolling test update to Windows 11 Insiders in the Experimental channel.
1 sourceThe Verge - Coming weeks
Features will roll out to the Experimental Channel.
1 sourceThe Verge
Potential Impact
- 01
Windows 11 Insiders in the Experimental channel will gain early access to repositionable taskbar features.
- 02
The Start menu will become more customizable with section toggles and size options.
- 03
Users with smaller displays may benefit from the shorter taskbar option once released.
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