According to Windows Central, Windows 11 version 26H2 will restore Taskbar movement to any screen edge, introduce Start menu customization, and overhaul Windows Search. These features are in development for the 2026 cycle.
This update does not include a full desktop redesign but targets three core areas of the operating system. Windows Central reports these changes may also reach version 25H2 via monthly updates, possibly before 26H2.
Microsoft has not confirmed a final release date for version 26H2, which is expected in fall 2026.
Movable Taskbar Returns, Start Menu Gains Size Options
Windows 11 initially removed the ability to reposition the Taskbar, a change that was widely criticized. Version 26H2 will allow users to place the Taskbar at the top, bottom, left, or right edge of the display.
The interface automatically adjusts to the Taskbar’s position. When placed at the top, the Start menu and Search open downward, and all Taskbar elements reposition accordingly.
Windows Central notes two limitations for vertical layouts: the clock shows the year in abbreviated format, and the option to display seconds is unavailable. Both left and right layouts support app ungrouping and labels with the “Never combine” option.
Version 26H2 introduces a smaller Taskbar option under Taskbar position settings. The smaller Taskbar reduces icon size, and the separate icon size option is disabled when active. Taskbar position controls are found in Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors, with a live preview for each layout.
Version 26H2 restores several Start menu customization options that were removed at Windows 11’s launch.
The Start menu will offer preset size options instead of relying on display size. While users cannot drag to resize or switch to a full-screen layout as in Windows 10, the preset sizes improve flexibility over the previous fixed layout.
Users can now choose whether the Pinned, Recent (previously Recommended), and All sections appear, making it possible to hide unused sections.
Microsoft is also separating file recommendations from system recommendations, so users can turn off recommended content in the Start menu without affecting recent files or Jump Lists elsewhere, including on the Taskbar and in File Explorer.
A new privacy setting hides the user account name and profile picture during screen sharing to prevent personal or work information from appearing in meetings, presentations, or live streams. This setting is available in Settings > Personalization > Start.
Windows Search Prioritizes Local Results and Gets New Controls
Windows Search receives its largest update since Windows 11 launched. The redesigned Search home page now centers on recent searches, reducing visual clutter from trending topics and promotional content.
Microsoft has updated how results are displayed. When a web result is the best match, Search now places the answer prominently instead of prioritizing products or sponsored content.
The interface features improved spacing, clearer source labels, and thumbnail previews. The ranking system now prioritizes local content, so apps, settings, and files appear before web and Microsoft Store results when most relevant. Windows Central notes that settings searches are now more accurate and rank higher.
Search accuracy has improved for misspelled queries, missing or extra letters, and partial words. Windows Search can now find local files with as few as two characters and better identifies matching cloud and connected files. Microsoft has also increased the Search box height by four pixels.
After installing version 26H2 or the equivalent 25H2 monthly update, the new options are available in the following locations:
- Open Settings, then Personalization, then Taskbar, then Taskbar behaviors, to change Taskbar position and enable the smaller Taskbar, using the live preview before applying.
- Open Settings, then Personalization, then Start, to set the Start menu size, toggle the Pinned, Recent, and All sections, and enable the screen-sharing privacy setting.
- Open Settings, then Privacy & security, then Search, to turn off web results and Microsoft Store suggestions for a local-only search experience.
Windows Central expects version 26H2 to launch in fall 2026, though Microsoft has not confirmed a release date. Because features are delivered through monthly updates, Taskbar, Start menu, and Search changes may also roll out to version 25H2, sometimes before 26H2.
Individual features may appear on a staggered schedule, and some options in testing could change before general availability.
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