Removing the news widget from the taskbar in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps. First, right-click on the taskbar to open the context menu. From there, select the “Taskbar settings” option. In the settings window, find the “Widgets” toggle and switch it off. This will remove the news widget from your taskbar. That’s all there is to it!
How to Remove News from Taskbar Windows 11
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove the news widget from your Windows 11 taskbar. This will help declutter your workspace and make your taskbar cleaner.
Step 1: Right-click the Taskbar
Begin by right-clicking anywhere on the taskbar.
This right-click action will open up a context menu that provides several options for customizing the taskbar. It’s your control center for managing what appears on it.
Step 2: Select Taskbar Settings
From the context menu, click on “Taskbar settings.”
Once you select “Taskbar settings,” a new window will pop up. This window gives you all the options you need to customize your taskbar, including whether or not to display the news widget.
Step 3: Locate Widgets Option
In the settings window, look for the “Widgets” toggle.
This toggle is part of the taskbar items listed in the settings. You’ll find it under the “Taskbar items” section. It helps you manage add-ons like news, making it easy to customize what you see.
Step 4: Turn Off the Widgets Toggle
Switch the “Widgets” toggle to the off position.
By turning off the toggle, you’re telling Windows 11 to remove the news widget from your taskbar. The change takes effect immediately, clearing up space and removing the news content.
Step 5: Close the Settings Window
Simply close the settings window to finish up.
There’s no need to save changes manually. Once you’ve toggled off the widgets, the settings will automatically update, and you can close the window to return to your desktop.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the news widget will be gone from your Windows 11 taskbar. Your taskbar should now appear cleaner, and you’ll have more space for the apps and shortcuts you actually use.
Tips for Removing News from Taskbar Windows 11
- Explore More Taskbar Settings: While you’re looking to remove news, also see what else you can customize in the taskbar settings to enhance your experience.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: For quicker access, press “Windows + I” to open settings directly.
- Review Other Widgets: Consider turning off other widgets you don’t use to further streamline your taskbar.
- Re-enable if Needed: You can always go back and turn the news widget back on if you find you miss it.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date, as updates might change the customization process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I see the Widgets toggle?
If the toggle isn’t visible, it might be due to a system update or restriction settings. Check if your Windows 11 is updated, or consult with your administrator.
Is removing the news widget permanent?
No, it’s not permanent. You can always re-enable the widget by turning the toggle back on in the taskbar settings.
Will removing the news widget affect my news app?
No, it only removes the widget from the taskbar. It does not affect any standalone news apps you have.
Can I customize the news widget instead of removing it?
Yes, you can customize the news feed by clicking on it and adjusting your interests and news sources.
What if I can’t find Taskbar settings?
If Taskbar settings aren’t appearing, use the search function in the start menu to type “Taskbar settings” and access it from there.
Summary
- Right-click the taskbar.
- Choose “Taskbar settings.”
- Find “Widgets” toggle.
- Turn off “Widgets.”
- Close settings.
Conclusion
Removing the news widget from your Windows 11 taskbar is a quick way to simplify and personalize your desktop environment. With just a few clicks, you can eliminate distractions, making your taskbar a cleaner and more efficient space for your daily tasks. Plus, with the flexibility to easily toggle it back on, you have control over how you want your desktop to appear.
While some might enjoy staying updated with the latest news at a glance, others find it distracting or unnecessary. Fortunately, Windows 11 makes customization effortless, allowing users to tailor their experience to their liking.
If you’re diving deeper into customizing Windows 11, consider exploring other taskbar and system settings to fully optimize your workflow. Whether it’s changing themes, adjusting notifications, or managing other widgets, Windows gives you the tools to create a desktop environment that works best for you.
Have a question about another feature? Don’t hesitate to explore further or reach out to online communities for tips and tricks. Windows 11 is packed with features designed to improve your experience, so take advantage of them to make your tech life smoother.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.