Windows 11 users have long felt the absence of a convenient feature that allows them to toggle all tray icons with a single click. This functionality, which was a staple in Windows 10, provided a quick way for users to monitor all running applications, particularly beneficial for those with larger screens that can accommodate multiple icons.
While it is possible to manually drag icons out of the overflow area, this method can quickly become cumbersome, especially for users with numerous tray icons. Additionally, Windows 11 has garnered a reputation for its unpredictable behavior regarding tray icons, often hiding them without explanation or randomly restoring others, such as OneDrive. In response to these frustrations, third-party developers have stepped in to offer solutions where Microsoft has yet to improve.
Introducing Windhawk
A notable solution comes in the form of a simple mod created by developer m417z, which is part of the Windhawk platform. This mod enables users to toggle all tray icons with a single click, mirroring the functionality available in Windows 10’s Settings app. For those unfamiliar with Windhawk, it is a third-party application that serves as a repository for various tweaks designed for both Windows 10 and 11. Many of these tweaks address the minor inconveniences that users frequently encounter in Windows 11, making Windhawk a valuable resource for those willing to explore third-party enhancements. Notably, Windhawk allows users to review the source code of its modules, providing transparency about what each modification does to the system.
To experience the convenience of toggling all tray icons, users can download Windhawk from its official website. After installation, simply search for “Always show all taskbar tray icons” and click install. The changes will take effect immediately, and if users wish to revert to the original taskbar state, they can easily click “Disable.”
Beyond the tray icon mod, Windhawk offers another intriguing feature that allows users to reposition the taskbar to the side of the screen. Although the process may be somewhat complex, many users find this option preferable to the default setting of a bottom-anchored taskbar, a feature that Microsoft has deemed unimportant.