14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft is working around the clock on polishing the taskbar experience in Windows 11, and the debut of the tablet-optimized version is just the living proof in this regard.
However, it turns out Microsoft is also going the other way around and sometimes making it harder to use certain capabilities in Windows 11.
Case in point, the system tray icons, as the Redmond-based software giant has recently removed the ability to drag icons displayed here.
In other words, if you want to reorder system tray icons, the only option is to use the dedicated page in the Settings app for the whole thing.
Intended behavior
Microsoft has confirmed in a post in the Feedback Hub this is a change implemented after the debut of the tablet-optimized taskbar in Windows 11 (currently available in the preview builds of the operating system and shipped as part of the Windows Insider program).
“We'll be continuing to monitor this feedback, but with the updates we made for the new tablet-optimized taskbar in Build 22563, we're no longer supporting dragging icons in the system tray or between the system tray and the show hidden icons flyout. Instead, you should use the Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > System tray section to manage these icons,” Microsoft explained.
The tablet-optimized taskbar comes to Windows 11 users with two different states called collapsed and expanded.
“In the collapsed state, the taskbar gets out your way, gives you more screen space, and prevents you from accidentally invoking the taskbar when you’re holding your tablet. In the expanded state, the taskbar is optimized to be easier to use with touch. You can easily switch between the two states by swiping up and down on the bottom of your device,” Microsoft explains.
At this point, it doesn’t look like Microsoft is willing to undo this change concerning the system tray icons, so make sure you post in the Feedback Hub to make the company aware of your opinion.