Microsoft is quietly working on a new feature for the Windows 11 taskbar called “Companions,” and early signs suggest it could be tied to artificial intelligence.
What Are Taskbar Companions?
The exact functionality of these so-called “Companions” is still unclear, but leaked strings from preview builds and Windows Server Build 26454 point to a potential AI-driven enhancement. Well-known Windows insider PhantomOcean3and Xeno spotted references to “Agentic companions” in the system files—language that closely aligns with previous reports about AI taskbar actions.
According to internal strings, these companions would be visible and potentially interactive elements on the taskbar. One such string reads:
“Controls visibility of agentic companions on the taskbar.”
This indicates Microsoft is planning a toggle for users to manage these features via the Settings app.
Could AI Actions Be the Same as Companions?
It’s likely that “AI actions” and “Agentic companions” refer to the same upcoming feature. Windows Latest previously reported that Microsoft wants to enhance the taskbar with smart, AI-powered utilities, and the Companion references appear to support that direction.
While the feature isn’t functional yet, the groundwork is already present in preview builds—hinting that testing is underway within Microsoft.
A Canceled Idea: Taskbar Recommendations
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Microsoft explored enhancing the taskbar with smart suggestions. A previously shelved idea, driven by former Copilot and Bing chief Mikhail Parakhin, aimed to integrate “recommendations” directly into the taskbar.
These recommendations would likely have surfaced app suggestions, websites, or snap layouts—possibly powered by Bing or Edge data. Insider builds even included settings strings like:
“Controls visibility of recommendations on the taskbar.”
However, after Parakhin’s departure, the feature was dropped. Although registry entries still reference “ShowRecommendations,” the actual functionality never shipped to users.
More Taskbar Features in the Pipeline
Aside from AI-driven companions, Microsoft is actively refining several other Windows 11 taskbar elements:
-
Shared Audio Playback: Windows 11 will soon support simultaneous audio output across multiple Bluetooth devices, thanks to advancements in newer Bluetooth adapter technologies.
-
Clock with Seconds: The system clock in the taskbar is also getting a subtle but welcome update. Windows Insiders are currently testing a version that includes seconds in the Calendar flyout—something users have long requested.
Final Thoughts
The “Companions” feature could be Microsoft’s next big move to integrate AI deeper into the Windows 11 user interface. While details are still emerging, it’s clear that the company sees the taskbar as a gateway for intelligent, real-time assistance.
Stay tuned—Windows 11’s taskbar may soon become more than just a place for open apps and pinned icons.