Technology

Microsoft Tests Customizable Windows 11 Start Menu Sizes and Taskbar Positions

By The Signal Post | | 3 min read

Microsoft Tests New Windows 11 Start Menu and Taskbar Customization Features

Microsoft has started testing several new customization features for Windows 11, giving users more control over the Start menu size, taskbar positioning, and privacy settings. The updates are currently rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel.

The company said the changes are designed to improve personalization and help users create a cleaner and more flexible desktop experience.

Windows 11 Start Menu Size Options

One of the biggest additions is the ability to choose between Small and Large versions of the Windows 11 Start menu. Users can select their preferred size directly from the Start menu settings.

The selected menu size will remain consistent across different displays and monitors.

The update comes after user complaints about the Windows 11 Start menu becoming significantly larger following updates released in late 2025.

New Start Menu Section Controls

Microsoft is also introducing section-level toggles for the Start menu. Users will be able to individually show or hide sections such as:

  • Pinned apps
  • Recommended content
  • All apps

This allows users to simplify the Start menu experience according to their preferences. For example, users can choose to display only pinned applications by disabling Recommended and All apps sections.

The toggles are expected to roll out gradually over the coming weeks.

Privacy Improvements for Start Menu

The Insider build also introduces additional privacy-focused controls. Users can now disable file recommendations specifically inside the Start menu without affecting recommendations elsewhere in Windows.

Microsoft is also adding the option to hide the user's name and profile picture from the Start menu, which could be useful while screen sharing, streaming, or presenting publicly.

Flexible Taskbar Positioning

Another major feature being tested is the ability to move the Windows 11 taskbar to any side of the screen.

Users can place the taskbar on:

  • Top edge
  • Bottom edge
  • Left edge
  • Right edge

Microsoft is also introducing icon alignment customization depending on taskbar position. Users can select centered or left-aligned icons for top and bottom positions, while side taskbars support top-aligned and centered layouts.

Windows Insider Program Access

To test these upcoming Windows 11 features, users must join Microsoft's Windows Insider Program using a Microsoft account.

Windows Insiders receive early preview builds of experimental Windows features and can submit feedback directly to Microsoft before wider public releases.

The company frequently uses Insider feedback to refine features, improve usability, and fix issues before official rollout.

Customization Focus in Windows 11

Microsoft has been steadily increasing personalization options in Windows 11 following criticism from users regarding limited customization compared to earlier Windows versions.

The latest Insider changes suggest the company is continuing to focus on improving flexibility, accessibility, and user control within the operating system.

Key Highlights

  • Microsoft is testing Small and Large Start menu sizes in Windows 11
  • Users can show or hide Start menu sections individually
  • New privacy settings allow hiding profile pictures and names
  • Taskbars can now be positioned on any side of the screen
  • Icon alignment customization is also being introduced
  • The features are currently available to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel
  • Microsoft continues expanding Windows 11 personalization features

Conclusion

Microsoft's latest Windows 11 Insider updates introduce several long-requested customization features aimed at improving usability and flexibility across the operating system. From adjustable Start menu sizes to advanced taskbar positioning and privacy-focused controls, the changes reflect Microsoft's ongoing effort to modernize Windows personalization.

As testing continues through the Windows Insider Program, the company is expected to gather user feedback before deciding on a wider public rollout of the new Windows 11 interface features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What new Windows 11 features is Microsoft testing?
Microsoft is testing customizable Start menu sizes, section toggles, privacy controls, and flexible taskbar positioning in Windows 11.
Can users resize the Windows 11 Start menu?
Yes, Windows Insiders can now choose between Small and Large Start menu layouts.
Can the Windows 11 taskbar be moved?
Yes, Microsoft is testing the ability to place the taskbar on the top, bottom, left, or right side of the screen.
What are Start menu section toggles?
Section toggles allow users to individually show or hide parts of the Start menu, including Pinned apps, Recommended content, and All apps.
Are there new privacy features in Windows 11?
Yes, users can hide their profile picture and name from the Start menu and disable file recommendations specifically inside Start.
Who can access these new Windows 11 features?
The features are currently available to users enrolled in Microsoft's Windows Insider Program Experimental channel.
What is the Windows Insider Program?
The Windows Insider Program allows users to test preview builds of Windows and provide feedback to Microsoft before public releases.
Why is Microsoft adding more customization options?
Microsoft is responding to user feedback requesting greater flexibility and personalization within Windows 11.