Microsoft is testing a fresh feature in Windows 11. This Windows 11 update brings a New Mac OS like Resizable Taskbar Icon support. It helps users save space while using many apps. Icons now shrink like the macOS dock style.
This feature is now part of the latest Insider Preview Beta. Microsoft also made changes to the Start menu layout.
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WINDOWS 11 New Mac OS like Resizable Taskbar Icon Feature
Windows 11 is getting a new visual update. The taskbar icons can now resize automatically. This means they shrink as more apps open. Or, they can stay smaller all the time.
Microsoft added this to the beta version. You can try it if you use Insider builds. Go to Taskbar settings and then Taskbar behaviors. There, you will find a new section. It’s called Show smaller taskbar buttons.
It offers three different options for resizing icons:
- Always: Icons stay small all the time.
- Never: Icons always stay their regular size.
- When the taskbar is full: Icons shrink when space is tight.
The third option is very useful for multitaskers. It helps keep all icons visible on the taskbar. No more hidden icons in a second menu.
This resizing system is very much like macOS. In Mac, dock icons shrink when many apps open. Now, Windows 11 brings the same smart behavior.
This is useful for users with small screens. It saves space without removing any app shortcuts. It also gives a cleaner look to the desktop.
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Start Menu Gets New Bigger Layout in Insider Update
Microsoft also redesigned the Start menu in this build. Now, the Start menu has a bigger layout. It shows all installed apps in one full view.
There’s also an option to hide recent apps. This clears the space for other applications. The new layout makes navigation simpler and cleaner.
X user phantomofearth spotted this new Start menu. He shared this update on his social media account. He usually checks insider builds deeply.
The new layout helps people who like neat screens. You don’t need to scroll much to find apps. All main apps are visible in the Start menu itself.
This feature is still in testing right now. It may come to all users in future updates. Microsoft is listening to user feedback very closely.
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Battery Icons Missing for Now but Returning Soon
Microsoft introduced new battery icons in January. These icons showed battery levels in new styles and helped check charge status easily.
But in this new Insider build, they are missing. Microsoft officially confirmed this issue in their update notes.
They said the icons would come back very soon. They are working to fix the issue quickly. The missing icons are just a temporary problem.
So if you updated and can’t see them, don’t worry. Microsoft plans to restore them in the coming builds. They are not removed forever from the system.
These icons were liked by many users earlier. So, their return will be a welcome change again.
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The Final Words
WINDOWS 11’s New Mac OS like Resizable Taskbar Icons feature is a smart and helpful change. It saves space and gives a cleaner screen look.
The updated Start menu adds more ease and control. Though the battery icons are missing, they will return soon. Microsoft is making Windows 11 more modern and user-friendly. These updates show great improvements for everyone.
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