Windows 11 Build 26300.8493 Brings Movable Taskbar, Smaller Taskbar Mode, and Fluid D

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Microsoft has released Windows 11 Build 26300.8493 to the Experimental channel. This update introduces the option to move the Taskbar to any edge of the screen for the first time since Windows 11’s launch. It also adds a smaller Taskbar option, updates Widgets behavior, expands Fluid Dictation language support, and features a redesigned set of system spinners.

The ability to move the Taskbar was a frequently requested feature since Windows 11 removed the Taskbar positioning options in 2021.

This change was part of the Windows K2 initiative, Microsoft's effort to address long-standing complaints about Windows 11.

Movable Taskbar and New Smaller Mode

The Taskbar can now be moved to different positions through Settings, Personalization, Taskbar, Taskbar behaviors. You can choose to place it at the bottom, top, left, or right of the screen.

Tooltips, flyouts, and animations still originate from the Taskbar in each position. Most customization options, including the small Taskbar setting and the option to never combine icons, work across all locations.

However, some features are not yet available in the alternative positions. Touch gestures, the Search box, and Ask Copilot are still being developed. Auto-hidden and touch-optimized Taskbar modes are not supported when the Taskbar is moved.

A new option to show smaller taskbar buttons is now available in Settings under Personalization, Taskbar, Taskbar behaviors. When enabled, it reduces both the size of icons and the overall height of the Taskbar. Start, Search, and the system tray scale together to keep everything aligned.

The default Taskbar appearance remains unchanged for users who do not enable this setting. Microsoft has indicated that further adjustments to Taskbar resizing are currently in development.

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