In the wake of Windows 11, Microsoft is looking to be able to compete with the iPad and has decided to move forward with a feature that will make the taskbar tablet-friendly. The change may mean losing the existing functionality of the taskbar to create a hety but a touch-friendly design for users who use tablets.
Apple’s iPad series began with a basic operating system that progressively got more efficient with regular updates. However, Microsoft has been trying to make the connection between desktops and tablets over many years. Although Windows 8 tablet attempts were unsuccessful, Microsoft isn’t willing to abandon the concept of Windows for tablets..
Microsoft recently released a brand-new Preview Update (Build 25193) that includes a few modifications, like Xbox subscription integration into Settings as well as File Explorer bug fixes. The build also includes an undiscovered feature that will enable users to run Windows 11 on tablets i.e touchscreen devices much more enjoyable.
As you will see in the above photo, there’s an updated option that allows you to optimise your taskbar for touchscreen interactions when the device is being used as tablet’. Also when you toggle the option, Windows will automatically detect the state of the device and change to a tablet-optimized taskbar if it thinks you’re using the device as tablet.
The feature was initially launched earlier in the year, however, Microsoft took it off of the preview builds because it harmed the tray on the system.
It appears that Microsoft is looking to revive the taskbar for tablets that was delayed. With Windows 11, build 25193, the Taskbar for tablets has been updated to have two modes that are expanded and collapsed mode.
When the taskbar is collapsed in default mode, the taskbar could appear much smaller i.e thin, allowing more room for desktops, apps and other parts that comprise the OS. This state of the taskbar is especially beneficial on tablets with small screens as it will prevent accidental tapping on buttons on the taskbar like those on the tray for system use or the overflow menu.
The second state , ‘expanded mode’ aims for the goal of making your taskbar more user-friendly i.e larger or chunkier. This allows you to click on items that are which are added to the taskbar which allows you to select additional items by tapping them with the touchscreen.
To change between the two modes on the taskbar all you have to do is move your fingers up or down to lower right of screen.
Through our testing, we found that this mode doesn’t come off by accident on desktops or laptops. That means it’s only available on 2-in-1s and tablets that have touchscreens and when Windows detects “touch interactions”. This could be the default mode on some Surface devices that have touchscreens that fold backwards or removed away from keyboards.
It’s important to remember that it’s a hidden feature and users will not be able to see it even after installing the most recent update. If the tests go good and the new tablet-friendly taskbar does not affect the functionality of the system tray for desktops, we may witness the return to this function in the near future.
