Microsoft is introducing a new experimental interface for Windows 11 that adds a persistent Top Menu Bar, similar to the status bar found in macOS or GNOME. This feature will be released as a module within the PowerToys utility suite rather than a standard system update.
The bar functions as a command center where users can pin widgets, control media, monitor system resources, and access shortcuts. It is fully customizable and can be docked to any edge of the screen, offering power users a new way to interact with their desktop without cluttering the taskbar.
This decision to isolate the feature in PowerToys aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy for 2026. Following criticism regarding bugs in basic applications like Notepad, the company is prioritizing “fixing the basics” and restoring core system stability. By keeping experimental UI changes separate, Microsoft aims to innovate for enthusiasts while ensuring the main operating system remains reliable.