Introduction: The taskbar in Windows serves as a convenient hub for accessing frequently used applications, system notifications, and shortcuts. However, when watching videos, playing games, or working in fullscreen mode, the taskbar can sometimes become a distraction. Fortunately, Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer built-in options to automatically hide the taskbar when in fullscreen mode, providing users with a more immersive experience. In this article, we’ll explore how to hide the taskbar in fullscreen mode on Windows 10 and Windows 11, allowing you to make the most of your screen real estate without compromising functionality.

Method 1: Using Taskbar Settings in Windows 10

  1. Right-click on the Taskbar: Begin by right-clicking on an empty area of the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
  2. Access Taskbar Settings: From the context menu that appears, select “Taskbar settings.”
  3. Toggle Automatically Hide the Taskbar in Desktop Mode: In the Taskbar settings window, scroll down to the “Taskbar behaviors” section. Here, you’ll find an option labeled “Automatically hide the taskbar in desktop mode.” Toggle this option to “On.”
  4. Toggle Automatically Hide the Taskbar in Tablet Mode: If you use tablet mode or have a touchscreen device, you can also toggle the option for “Automatically hide the taskbar in tablet mode” to “On.”
  5. Test the Setting: Once you’ve enabled the “Automatically hide the taskbar” option(s), switch to fullscreen mode in an application or video player. The taskbar should automatically hide after a few moments of inactivity, providing a cleaner fullscreen experience.

Method 2: Using Taskbar Settings in Windows 11

  1. Right-click on the Taskbar: Similarly, begin by right-clicking on an empty area of the taskbar in Windows 11.
  2. Access Taskbar Settings: From the context menu, select “Taskbar settings.”
  3. Toggle Automatically Hide the Taskbar: In the Taskbar settings window, locate the “Taskbar behaviors” section. Here, you’ll find an option labeled “Automatically hide the taskbar.” Toggle this option to “On.”
  4. Test the Setting: Once you’ve enabled the “Automatically hide the taskbar” option, enter fullscreen mode in an application or video player. The taskbar should disappear after a few moments, maximizing your screen space for a more immersive experience.

Conclusion:

Hiding the taskbar in fullscreen mode on Windows 10 and Windows 11 can help minimize distractions and provide a more immersive experience when watching videos, playing games, or working on tasks that require fullscreen focus. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily configure Windows settings to automatically hide the taskbar when in fullscreen mode, allowing you to make the most of your screen real estate without sacrificing functionality. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, these built-in options provide a simple and effective solution for hiding the taskbar and enhancing your fullscreen experience.