Microsoft testing adjustable taskbar, Start menu in Windows 11

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8493 re‑introduces a resizable taskbar with smaller buttons and allows the taskbar to be positioned on the top, left, right, or bottom of the screen without requiring a restart. Users can enable the new positioning and size options via Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors, where a “Show smaller taskbar buttons” toggle reduces icon and taskbar height. The Start menu has also been updated to let users toggle recommended content, customize its size, and hide their name or profile picture, while still maintaining a list of recently installed apps for discovery. Microsoft is testing a modern Run dialog with dark mode support that removes the Browse button and must be enabled manually in Settings > Advanced Settings. The company plans to reduce notifications, simplify settings, and improve search consistency across the Start menu, taskbar, File Explorer, and Settings. These UI changes aim to make Windows 11 more flexible and responsive for users and developers alike.