Microsoft Bends to User Feedback: Windows 11 Taskbar Gets Long-Requested Update

Microsoft has finally given in to user feedback and will allow Windows 11 users to move their taskbar, one of the most requested features since the operating system's release. The update also brings new search options, including the ability to turn off Bing search results in the Start menu.

The movable taskbar feature was first shown by Satya Nadella at Build a few months ago and is now available for testing in preview as part of the optional KB5120998 update. However, Microsoft will likely fully release it on the next Patch Tuesday (September 8).

Once installed, users can move the taskbar to the left, right, or top edge of the screen, shrink it to get more screen real estate, and even turn off search results from Bing and the Store. The update also includes a new 'Opt out of backup' option in OneDrive, which will allow users to decline the offer indefinitely.

In addition, Microsoft has released a free utility called Window Hopper as part of its PowerToys package, which brings a popular macOS-style keyboard shortcut to Windows. The utility lets users switch between windows within their current app with the Alt+` keyboard shortcut.