Microsoft wants Windows 11 to be a much better platform for tablets, and several features are helping to reach that goal. The latest changes arrive in Windows 11 preview Build 22563 which is currently available in the Dev Channel. Specifically, a new taskbar that is optimized properly to work on tablets.
When users enter tablet mode in Windows 11, they can now select between two options: First is a state where the taskbar is collapsed and displays important status icons only. The second is an expanded taskbar that will make it easier to touch apps and icons.
Microsoft is locking this feature, which means it is exclusively for devices that can be used as tablets, such as full tablets and 2-in-1 convertibles. Laptops and desktops will not get this feature. As Windows 11 build 22563 is in preview, the new taskbar in tablet mode is only available to Windows Insiders.
“Your taskbar will automatically transition to this optimized version when you disconnect or fold back the keyboard on your 2-in-1 device.”
It will likely come to all Windows 11 user later in the year.
Build 22563
Alongside the new tablet taskbar experience, Windows 11 preview Build 22563 comes with other changes. For example, a new group policy for education IT admins, allowing them to turn off Windows Update notifications during school hours.
Furthermore, the preview also includes more content for Widgets. Microsoft is grouping widgets in the news feed to create a single combined feed. The company says this feature is included in the update, but is landing in stages so is not available to everyone.
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