Is the Windows taskbar getting crowded? Microsoft is testing a new feature in Windows 11 to shrink icons and cram even more apps into the taskbar.
The taskbar is an indispensable feature for many Windows users. Here you can keep all your favorite apps and maintain an overview of which programs are open. Pinning many apps can quickly fill up the taskbar. Microsoft has found a handy solution for Windows 11.
In the Preview Build 27898 released on July 11, Microsoft is testing a feature to scale taskbar icons. The idea is that the icons automatically shrink as more applications are open. This creates more space in the taskbar for all active applications. Handy for the seasoned multitasker or those who cram the taskbar as full as an egg with pinned applications.
Large or Small
Microsoft is rolling out the feature in preview before deploying it to a wider audience. You’ll have the choice to automatically shrink icons when the taskbar gets too crowded or to opt for permanently smaller icons. If you like the taskbar as it is now, you can of course leave everything as it was.
The taskbar has come a long way in Windows 11. Initially, many familiar taskbar functions were missing, which didn’t sit well with the first Windows 11 users. Gradually, those functions were restored.
Quick Recovery
Microsoft is testing some new features in the latest Windows 11 preview build. The quick recovery mode is gradually taking shape. Quick machine recovery directs your device to a secure environment to send diagnostic data to Microsoft when startup problems occur. The feature is a remnant of the Crowdstrike debacle that took place a year ago.
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Further improvements in the Windows 11 preview include literally putting the spotlight on the dialog box that appears when an app requests access to your microphone or camera by darkening the rest of the screen. You can find an overview of new features and general improvements here. Battery management in Windows is also becoming smarter.
Microsoft recently celebrated a milestone: Windows 11 has overtaken Windows 10 as the most popular operating system. The catch-up maneuver probably came more out of necessity, as Windows 10 is on its last legs.