Microsoft is planning to reintroduce a long-awaited feature for Windows 11, as reported by WindowsCentral: The Start bar will be movable in the future. With this adjustment, the company is responding directly to user feedback that has been loudly asking for this feature since the launch of Windows 11 2021. In addition to being able to move the taskbar, users will also be able to adjust its size in future, which will make customization and workflow much easier.
- Taskbar can be placed on the left, right or top in future
- Customizable size of the taskbar for more flexibility
- Improved functionality of all taskbar buttons and flyouts in new positions
- Feature is considered a high priority at Microsoft and is expected to be introduced in the summer
Moveable start bar: A comeback for Windows 11
Since Windows 95, users have been able to freely move the taskbar – an option that was initially removed in Windows 11 when Microsoft redeveloped the start bar from scratch. Now the company is responding to five years of user feedback and is actively working on bringing this function back. In future, users will not only be able to use the taskbar at the bottom of the screen, but also position it to the left, right or at the top.
In addition to moving the taskbar, it will also be possible to adjust its size. For example, if you need a lot of space for open apps, you can enlarge the bar; if you want more screen space for other content, you can make it smaller. Microsoft is making sure that all elements such as flyouts, widgets and shortcuts continue to function properly, regardless of the position in which the taskbar is used.
Improvements in the context of user feedback
The taskbar updates are part of a larger plan to make Windows 11 more user-friendly. Microsoft is working in parallel on performance improvements, optimizations in File Explorer and other system areas to simplify everyday use. The movable taskbar is considered a high-priority feature internally, which is why resources are being bundled specifically for a fast and stable implementation.
These adjustments show that Microsoft is taking the criticism of recent years seriously and wants to increase the acceptance of Windows 11. In addition to functional changes, the company is aiming to regain the trust of users and further increase user-friendliness. With the return of the movable start bar, Windows 11 will be more flexible and customizable, which will be particularly noticeable with different screen formats and working methods.
Conclusion
The movable start bar is returning after five years and allows Windows 11 users to freely position and resize the taskbar. The feature is expected to be introduced in summer 2026 and is part of a comprehensive update that aims to improve the platform’s performance, stability and user-friendliness.