Windows 11 update brings a new controller bar and taskbar

With Insider Preview Build 22616 for Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing the new “Controller Bar” for Xbox gamepads and bringing back the ability to sort hidden taskbar icons using drag and drop. The update is now available in the beta and dev channels. In recent weeks, the Redmond-based company has caused a stir in the insider community after it decided to disable the well-known sorting feature for hidden system tray icons.

The reason Microsoft stated was to optimize the taskbar for possible tablet operation in the course of the upcoming 22H2 update and remove the function for it. Now, the developers are responding to Insiders’ feedback and are bringing back the drag-and-drop sorting: “The taskbar, especially the ‘Show hidden icons’, now works the same as it did in the original version of Windows 11, including the ability to display icons. into the flyout to rearrange.”

Windows 11 gets a new “Controller Bar” for Xbox controllers

In parallel with the Xbox Game Bar, Microsoft is testing the so-called Controller Bar with the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22616. This is used when the Xbox button of a compatible gamepad is used and no game has been started yet. Recently played titles and various game clients (eg Xbox App, Steam, EA App, etc.) are displayed via a compact overlay. When the user is in the game, the classic Xbox Game Bar is used instead of the Controller Bar, which, as is known, can also be opened via the keyboard (Windows + G). In addition to a current Insider build of Windows 11, the Xbox Insider Hub and participation in the Windows Gaming Preview are required to use the Controller Bar. Also, the latest Xbox Game Bar must be installed.

A short window for developer beta change

Finally, Microsoft informs Windows 11 insiders about the quick-closing window for easy switching between the Dev and Beta channels: “This window will close as soon as we release builds with higher build numbers to the development channel. If your device is in the development channel and receives a build with a higher build number than the beta channel, you must perform a clean install of the released version of Windows 11 on your device to switch to the beta channel.”