May 11, 2026, 9:22 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Microsoft is working to visibly improve Windows 11. In recent months, the operating system has mainly been noted for issues with updates. At the same time, the focus was heavily on new AI features. Now, the company seems to be concentrating more on fundamental elements again.
The apparent goal is to regain users’ trust. Initial indications are provided by current preview versions. They show that the taskbar and widgets, in particular, are set to be adjusted.
Taskbar to Become More Flexible and Space-Saving
One of the most noticeable changes concerns the taskbar. According to the online magazine “Windows Latest,” users will soon have the option to shrink it. Program icons can then be displayed permanently smaller. Alternatively, the system can automatically reduce the icons when many applications are open simultaneously, creating more space on the bar. The idea is not entirely new. A similar function already existed in Windows 10. Microsoft is thus revisiting the concept and integrating it into the new version.
Also interesting: Windows 11 gets a new Start menu
Changes are also planned for the widgets. Specifically, it concerns the previously integrated MSN widget in the Start menu. Currently, hovering over the weather symbol opens a large window displaying news, weather data, stock prices, and other content. Advertisements are also displayed there. In the tested preview versions, a different behavior is now evident. According to the online magazine “WinFuture,” only content selected by users will appear in the future. The preset news feed will thus be eliminated.
Possible Launch Not Until Fall 2026
It is still unclear when exactly the innovations will be available to everyone. However, there are indications of a possible timeframe. The adjustments could be part of the Windows K2 project. Within this framework, a launch from fall 2026 is conceivable. It is also possible that the features will be distributed along with version 26H2. Microsoft has not yet confirmed if and when this will actually happen.