Mikhail Parakhin

Mikhail Parakhin, who oversaw Windows for six months back in 2024, says Windows 11's taskbar lacks critical features.

Taskbar Features Missing

He wants Microsoft to restore auto-hide and full taskbar resize regardless of position, something promised 'coming soon' six months ago.

Taskbar Criticism

Parakhin calls Windows 11's taskbar 'not usable yet' after installing the 26H2 update.

“not usable yet”

Windows 11 Photos Experience

Microsoft splits photo functionality between Gallery and Viewer apps, with Gallery relying on web-based technologies.

Photos App Issues

Gallery app requires over 500MB of memory and spawns multiple WebView processes when tested.

Security Updates

Windows 11 received a security update fixing 1,411 flaws, breaking a record for the most security fixes in a Windows update.

“KB5127648”

Taskbar Toolbars

Taskbar toolbars existed from Windows 95 through Windows 10 but are not currently available in Windows 11.

Windhawk Tool

Windhawk, a Windows-tweaking tool, lets users add folders and media players directly to the taskbar.

Taskbar Folder Menus

The Taskbar Folder Menus mod adds folders full of files and shortcuts to the Windows 11 taskbar.

Taskbar Fluent Media Player

The Taskbar Fluent Media Player mod embeds a media player widget directly on the Windows 11 taskbar.

Windows 11 Security Record

October's security update (KB5127648) fixes 1,411 flaws, setting a record for the most security fixes in a Windows update.

“KB5127648”

Taskbar Customization

Windows 11 allows resizing the taskbar only in horizontal mode; vertical mode only adjusts icon size.

Windows 11 Photos Update

Microsoft promises a redesigned native Viewer app that opens photos up to 30% faster and a new native Editor loading 25% faster.