After years of user complaints, Microsoft is finally bringing major usability improvements to Windows 11—including long-requested changes to the Taskbar and Start menu.
Taskbar freedom at last
One of the most requested features is finally arriving: Taskbar repositioning. Users will be able to move it:
- To the top of the screen
- To the sides (left or right)
- And potentially resize it for a cleaner look
This marks a major shift from Windows 11’s previously rigid design.
A smarter, customizable Start menu
The Start menu is also getting a redesign, with a more relevant Recommended section that surfaces useful apps and content. Importantly, users will have clearer controls to customize or disable these suggestions.
Better, clearer search
Search is being overhauled to deliver:
- More consistent results across system areas
- Clear separation between local files/apps and web results
- Improved reliability without unnecessary complexity
The goal is to make finding files and settings more intuitive.
Widgets and notifications toned down
Microsoft is also addressing clutter by making Widgets:
- More personalized and glanceable
- Easier to configure—or turn off entirely
At the same time, notifications are expected to become less intrusive, helping users stay focused.
A more flexible Windows experience
These changes are part of a broader initiative led by Pavan Davuluri, focusing on performance, reliability, and overall user experience.
A long-overdue update
Many of these features existed in older Windows versions or third-party tools, making their absence in Windows 11 a frequent point of criticism.
Now, Microsoft appears to be reversing course—giving users back control over the parts of Windows they interact with every day.