14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has finally started rolling out a change that many have been asking for: Task Manager is returning to the taskbar context menu.
The release of Windows 11 (the original version) brought several changes to the desktop experience, including the migration of Task Manager from the taskbar to the Start menu.
For Microsoft, this made a lot of sense, but for users, it made the desktop experience unfamiliar, especially when trying to launch Task Manager in a fast way.
The release of the Moment 1 update for Windows 11 2022 Update is bringing back Task Manager to the taskbar context menu, and now the release of Windows 11 cumulative update KB5018496 finally includes this feature.
Microsoft, however, says the rollout takes place gradually in the coming weeks.
“Taskbar is getting two highly requested enhancements. First, if you like to pin a larger selection of apps to your taskbar than space allows, Taskbar gives you an entry point to an overflow menu that allows you to view all your overflowed apps in one space. Second, when you right click on the taskbar, in addition to Taskbar Settings, you will also see an option to jump directly into your Task Manager. These improvements have been made in direct response to your feedback and to give you access to what is important with a single click,” Microsoft said when it announced the Moment 1 update.
Worth knowing is the new cumulative update is currently available as a preview, so users who want to download it have to manually check for updates in Windows Update.
On the other hand, the change will be part of the next automatic release that will go live on the November 2022 Patch Tuesday. At that point, the next batch of cumulative updates will be released to Windows 11 devices as automatic updates on Windows Update.