Windows 11: Microsoft looks to replace iPad with new 'tablet-optimized' taskbar

In Windows 11, Microsoft is still looking to take on the iPad, and the company has decided to go ahead and roll out a new feature to make the taskbar more tablet-friendly. This change may sacrifice some existing taskbar functionality in favor of a chunky but touch-friendly look for tablet users.

Apple’s iPad lineup started with a simple operating system and eventually got better with frequent updates. Microsoft, on the other hand, has spent the past few years trying to bridge the gap between tablets and desktops. While the Windows 8 tablet effort failed, Microsoft isn't willing to give up on the idea of ​​"Windows for tablets."

Microsoft recently released a new preview update (Build 25193) that includes tweaks such as Xbox subscription integration in Settings and File Explorer bug fixes. This version also comes with a hidden feature that makes using Windows 11 on tablets (i.e. touchscreen devices) even better.

As you can see in the screenshot above, there is a new option "Optimize the taskbar for touch interaction when this device is used as a tablet." In other words, when the toggle is on, Windows will automatically detect the "state" of your device and switch to the tablet-optimized taskbar when it thinks you're using the device as a tablet.

The feature first rolled out earlier this year, but Microsoft pulled it from preview due to breaking the system tray.

Looks like the company wants to bring back the delayed tablet-friendly taskbar. In Windows 11 Build 25193, the taskbar on tablets now has two states: collapsed and expanded mode.

In the default folded mode, the taskbar may appear thinner, or slimmer, providing more space for applications, the desktop, and other areas of the operating system. This taskbar state is particularly useful on small tablets, as it prevents accidental clicking of taskbar buttons such as the system tray or overflow menus.

The second state, "Extended" mode, is designed to make the taskbar touch-friendly, i.e. thicker or wider. This allows you to easily tap items pinned to the taskbar so you can use the touch screen to select more items.

To switch between the two states of the taskbar, you simply slide your finger up or down at the bottom of the screen.

In our testing, we observed that this mode does not accidentally turn on on desktops or laptops, meaning it only works on 2-in-1 tablets with touch screens or if Windows detects "touch interaction". This may be the default state for some Surface products with touch screens that fold or are detached from the keyboard.

It’s also worth noting that this is a hidden feature and users won’t see it even with the latest update installed. If testing goes well and a tablet-friendly taskbar doesn't cripple the desktop's system tray capabilities, we could see an official return of the feature in the future.

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