After years of user requests, Microsoft is finally bringing back the ability to move the Windows 11 taskbar to different sides of the screen. A new tutorial video shared by a Microsoft manager demonstrates how Windows Insiders can place the taskbar at the top, left, right, or bottom edge of their display.
The feature is currently rolling out to users enrolled in the Windows Insider Experimental channel, marking a major reversal of one of Windows 11’s most criticized design limitations. You can read more about the feature availability in builds here.
Microsoft Employee’s Tutorial Shows How It Works
In the newly released video, Microsoft employee Mike walks users through the simple process of changing the taskbar position via Windows Settings.
Once the feature reaches your Insider build, you’ll be able to navigate to:
Settings → Personalization → Taskbar → Taskbar Behaviors
A new Taskbar Position option allows you to select:
- Bottom (default)
- Top
- Left
- Right
The taskbar instantly moves to the selected edge without requiring a restart.
A Long-Requested Feature Finally Returns
When Windows 11 launched in 2021, Microsoft removed the flexibility that Windows 10 users had enjoyed for years. The taskbar became permanently locked to the bottom of the screen, frustrating power users, developers, ultrawide monitor owners, and multitaskers. Many users repeatedly requested the return of taskbar repositioning through feedback channels and community forums.
Microsoft now says taskbar placement has been one of the most requested Windows 11 features, prompting the company to bring it back as part of a broader personalization effort.
More Than Just Moving the Taskbar
The update includes several additional improvements designed to make the Windows desktop more customizable.
According to Microsoft, users can also:
- Choose icon alignment based on taskbar position
- Use Start, Search, and flyout menus that adapt to the taskbar’s location
- Enable vertical taskbar layouts for better multitasking
- Access a new smaller taskbar mode for increased screen space
- Improve organization with labeled app buttons in vertical layouts
For developers and productivity-focused users, placing the taskbar on the side of the screen can free up valuable vertical workspace, especially on widescreen monitors.
Current Limitations
Microsoft notes that the feature is still under development and some functionality is not yet available.
Known limitations include:
- Auto-hide support is not fully available in alternate taskbar positions
- Tablet-optimized taskbar behavior remains in development
- Touch gestures for side-mounted taskbars are still being refined
- Search boxes currently appear as icons when using alternate taskbar positions
The company is also evaluating future enhancements, including per-monitor taskbar positioning and improved drag-and-drop behavior.
When Will It Be Available?
The movable taskbar is currently rolling out gradually to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel. Microsoft has not yet confirmed a public release date for stable Windows 11 users, but the feature’s arrival in Insider testing is a strong indication that broader availability is being considered.
Why This Matters
The return of taskbar positioning flexibility represents one of the biggest Windows 11 quality-of-life upgrades since launch. While it may seem like a small change, it restores a level of desktop customization that many users considered essential.
For longtime Windows users, the ability to place the taskbar wherever it works best—top, left, right, or bottom—is a welcome sign that Microsoft is listening to feedback and bringing back features that enhance productivity and personalization.
Stay tuned to WinCentral for all latest news about Windows 11 and keep reading our full coverage here.
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