Windows 11 Is Finally Getting a Movable Taskbar in 2026
Microsoft is finally listening to user feedback. After years of requests, Windows 11 may soon allow users to move and resize the taskbar — a feature that was removed when Windows 11 first launched.
According to recent reports from Windows Central and Windows Latest, Microsoft is planning to bring back the movable taskbar in 2026.
What’s Changing in Windows 11?
When Windows 11 launched, the taskbar was locked to the bottom of the screen. Unlike Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10, users could not move it to the top, left, or right side.
That change frustrated many long-time Windows users who were used to customizing their desktop layout.
Now, Microsoft has confirmed that:
The taskbar will be movable (top, left, or right)
The taskbar will support resizing
Icons may automatically adjust depending on how many apps are pinned
This means Windows 11 will regain one of the most requested classic features.
Sources:
Windows Central: https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-11/windows-11-gaining-movable-taskbar-in-2026
Why Is Microsoft Making This Change?
Over the past few years, Microsoft has heavily focused on AI features inside Windows 11. While AI integration continues to expand, many users have expressed concerns about system stability and missing classic features.
In response to feedback shared through the Feedback Hub, Microsoft appears to be prioritizing usability improvements for 2026. Bringing back the movable taskbar is a clear sign that user feedback is being taken seriously.
When Will It Be Available?
The feature is expected to arrive first in the Windows Insider Dev Channel, then Beta, and eventually in the stable public release.
As of now, it is not available in the current stable version of Windows 11.
Temporary Solution: Third-Party Tools
If you want a movable taskbar right now, you can use third-party customization tools like Windhawk. These tools allow you to place the taskbar at the top and add additional customizations.
However, animations and system integration may not be perfect. An official Microsoft implementation should provide smoother animations and better stability.
PowerToys and the New Command Palette Dock
Alongside taskbar improvements, Microsoft is also working on improvements related to PowerToys.
PowerToys is a free and open-source Microsoft utility suite available on GitHub. It adds advanced features to Windows that power users love.
One standout feature is the Command Palette, a powerful search and launcher tool that many users prefer over the default Start menu search.
GitHub reference:
https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/issues/45201
There are also discussions about introducing a top dock or system bar experience that could include widgets like CPU usage and memory monitoring — similar to what users see in macOS or Linux environments.
This could bring a more modern and customizable desktop experience to Windows 11.
I’ve also made a video on this topic — you can watch it below.