Microsoft seems to be focusing on enhancing Windows 11’s usability for emoji fans by developing a new feature that adds the emoji panel directly to the taskbar. While there’s already an existing keyboard shortcut (Windows key + Period or Windows key + Semicolon) for quick emoji access, not every user is familiar with it. By adding an icon to the taskbar, Microsoft would make it easy to open the emoji panel without any key combinations, potentially appealing to a broader range of users.
The report from Windows Latest hints at this development, suggesting that Microsoft may have noticed a demand for more straightforward emoji access. Evidence for this feature comes from some leaked Windows 11 UI settings, where an “Emojis and more” button appears to be under testing. While Microsoft has yet to confirm the update, these leaks suggest the feature is being worked on internally.
If launched, this emoji taskbar shortcut would save users the hassle of memorizing key commands, especially with so many other keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11. Although it’s still unconfirmed, the move indicates that Microsoft may be aiming to make emoji use even more prominent within Windows 11. Whether or not this addition appeals to everyone, it shows Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to fine-tune the OS and cater to all kinds of user preferences.