According to Windows Central, Windows 11 version 26H2 will restore taskbar movement to any screen edge, introduce Start menu customizations, and overhaul Windows Search. These features are in development for the 2026 cycle.
This update does not include a complete desktop redesign but targets three main areas of the operating system. Windows Central reports that 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 to arrive in late 2026.
Movable Taskbar Returns, Start Menu Gains Size Options
Windows 11 initially removed the ability to reset the taskbar, a change that was widely criticized. Version 26H2 will allow users to place the taskbar on the top, bottom, left or right edge of the display.
The interface automatically adjusts to the position of the taskbar. When placed on top, the Start menu and Search open to the bottom, and all taskbar elements change accordingly.
Windows notes two limitations to the central vertical layout: the clock shows the year in an abbreviated format, and the option to display seconds is unavailable. Both left and right layouts support app ungrouping and labels with “Never Combine” option.
Version 26H2 introduces a Small Taskbar option under Taskbar Position Settings. Small Taskbar reduces icon size, and disables the Different Icon Size option when activated. Taskbar position controls are found in Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar Behavior, along with live previews for each layout.
Version 26H2 restores several Start menu customization options that were removed at the launch of Windows 11.
The Start menu will offer preset size options instead of relying on the display size. While users can’t drag to resize or switch to a full-screen layout like in Windows 10, preset sizes improve flexibility compared to previous fixed layouts.
Users can now choose whether Pinned, Recent (previously recommended), and All sections are visible, 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 the taskbar and File Explorer.
A new privacy setting hides user account names and profile pictures during screen sharing to prevent personal or work information from appearing in meetings, presentations or live streams. This setting is available in Settings > Personalization > Home.
Windows Search prioritizes local results and gets new controls
Windows Search has received its biggest update since Windows 11 launched. The redesigned Search home page now focuses on recent searches, reducing visual clutter from trending topics and promotional content.
Microsoft has updated how the 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 includes improved spacing, clear 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 ranked higher.
Search accuracy for misspelled queries, missing or extra letters, and partial words has been improved. Windows Search can now find local files with at least two characters and better identify matching cloud and connected files. Microsoft has also increased the height of the search box by four pixels.
After installing version 26H2 or the equivalent 25H2 monthly update, the new options are available in the following locations:
- To enable the small taskbar using Live Preview before changing the position of the taskbar and applying, open Settings, then Personalization, then Taskbar, then Taskbar Behavior.
- Open Settings, then Personalization, then toggle off the Start, Pinned, Recent, and All sections to set the size of the Start menu and enable the screen-sharing privacy setting.
- To turn off Web results and Microsoft Store suggestions for the local search experience only, open Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Search.
Windows Central expects version 26H2 to launch in late 2026, although Microsoft has not confirmed a release date. Since features are delivered through monthly updates, taskbar, Start menu, and search changes may also be implemented in version 25H2, sometimes earlier than 26H2.
Individual features may appear on a staggered schedule, and some options in testing may change before general availability.
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