New Windows 11 Taskbar System Tray Feature: Emoji and Symbol Insertion Reminders

Are you aware that Windows 11 offers a handy feature for inserting emojis across any text field? This functionality even extends to some games! You can activate it using the keyboard shortcuts (Win + “.” or Win + ;). However, recalling this shortcut during crucial moments can be challenging for many users when they wish to add emojis.

But it’s not just limited to emojis. How frequently do you find yourself needing a specific symbol or currency sign and resorting to Google or Bing to find and copy it? You’ll be pleased to know that Windows 11’s clipboard menu houses an array of characters, symbols, and emojis, accessible through another keyboard shortcut: Win + V.

Recent reports by Windows Latest indicate that Microsoft is developing a new emoji button, already visible in the latest preview update, Build 22635.4580 (KB5046733).

In the screenshot above, you can see the newly introduced feature dubbed “Emoji and more.”

Users can locate a toggle for “Emoji and more” on the personalization page of the taskbar settings, which, according to Microsoft, will display the icon for the emoji and more panel in the system tray.

There’s an option to disable the “Emoji and more” button on the taskbar or keep it visible at all times, which is its default setting. Additionally, there’s a fascinating toggle labeled “While typing.”

This option means the “Emoji and more” icon will only display on the taskbar when you’re actively typing in a text box, allowing for quick access to insert an emoji, kaomoji, symbol, or even view your clipboard history within Windows 11.

While some users might find it adds unnecessary clutter to the taskbar, personally, I find this concept beneficial. An emoji and more panel readily available on the taskbar can be extremely helpful for those who need to insert symbols or emojis swiftly or aren’t familiar with the keyboard shortcuts, particularly when utilizing the touch keyboard.

Currently, the “Emoji and more” button isn’t operational, but I’ve created a mockup to illustrate how the feature could potentially look:

When the button is clicked, it will expand automatically to reveal the emoji and other selection panel:

Is this a negative addition? I think not. It presents a positive enhancement, and for those who prefer to keep the emoji button off the taskbar or system, there is the option to hide it permanently.

I wouldn’t categorize it as bloatware since it’s entirely optional, and the ability to customize how it functions—such as having the emoji button appear only when typing—is a commendable feature.

Microsoft continues to test this “Emoji and more” button for Windows 11, with plans for its inclusion in both 23H2 and 24H2 updates.

Beyond this dedicated emoji button, the taskbar will also be redesigned to suggest apps, websites, and snap layouts.

Special thanks to @Phantom on X for highlighting this information!

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Author: Egor Kostenko

My goal is to make complex technical topics simple and accessible. On this site, I gather unique and useful content that not only solves users’ problems but also helps them better understand the capabilities of Windows.