Microsoft is Finally Fixing Another Taskbar Problem in Windows 11

Windows 11 Taskbar Gets Customizable Icon Sizes: A Long-Overdue Improvement

For sixteen years, the Windows taskbar's design has remained largely stagnant since Windows 7. A thick taskbar with large icons for open and pinned apps was the standard. While previous versions offered some tweaking, Windows 11's taskbar was notoriously inflexible—until now.

Microsoft is introducing new taskbar customization options. Previously, icon sizes were fixed, with the only workaround being adjusting screen density, affecting the entire UI. Now, users can finally shrink taskbar icons. This feature, currently available only to Windows Insiders, lets you adjust icon size within the Settings app.

Users can choose between the default large icons or a smaller size. A third option allows smaller icons only when the taskbar is crowded. While the current taskbar design is visually appealing, it can become cluttered, making the smaller-icon option attractive for many.

The main benefit, beyond aesthetics, is increased taskbar space. This allows for more open apps and pinned programs, improving workflow, especially for multitaskers. While having numerous open apps was always possible, the new option helps manage the visual clutter.

Related: Start11's Vertical Windows 11 Taskbar is Now Available to All Users

The inflexibility of the Windows 11 taskbar has been a point of contention. The lack of a vertical taskbar option and limited customization forced users to rely on workarounds or third-party apps like Start11. This contrasts sharply with previous Windows versions, which offered more basic customization options, including icon resizing.

Microsoft's gradual improvement is welcome, even if presented as a minor convenience. Future updates may bring back full taskbar customization, including the ability to adjust taskbar thickness, maximizing screen real estate.

This feature is currently rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels. Using these insider builds carries the risk of encountering bugs. The feature is expected to be available to all users in the next major Windows update.

Source: Jen Gentleman (Bluesky)

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