Q&A: Windows 11 Taskbar, RISC-V Router, and E Ink Color Dev Kit Explained

Microsoft is bringing back the ability to reposition the Windows 11 taskbar. Historically, Windows allowed users to move the taskbar to any edge of the screen (top, bottom, left, or right), but Windows 11 initially locked it to the bottom. The company is now reversing that change, responding to persistent user feedback. However, this feature is not yet available to the general public. It is currently being tested exclusively within the Windows 11 Insider Preview program, specifically through experimental builds. The exact timeline for a wider rollout remains unannounced, but this move signals Microsoft’s commitment to refining the user experience. Additionally, this update is part of a broader effort to enhance customization, including improvements to the Start Menu. Developers and power users are particularly keen on this change, as it restores a cherished level of control over their desktop layout.

Currently, the only way to test the taskbar repositioning feature is by joining the Windows 11 Insider Preview program and installing an “experimental build” of the operating system. Members of this program receive early updates that include features still under development. It’s important to note that not all Insiders see these options right away; Microsoft often rolls out experimental features in phases. To get started, you must sign up for the Windows Insider Program (it’s free), select the Dev Channel (or Canary Channel) which receives the most experimental builds, and then check for updates via Windows Update. Once installed, the option to move the taskbar should appear under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar. However, because these are experimental builds, they may contain bugs or incomplete functionality. Microsoft recommends only using them on secondary devices to avoid disrupting daily work.

Alongside taskbar improvements, Microsoft is also expanding Start Menu customization options for Windows Insiders. These new features aim to give users more control over the layout and content of the Start Menu. For example, Insiders may see options to adjust the number of pinned apps, reorganize the Recommended section, or even hide or show specific folders like Documents or Settings. The exact list of customizations is evolving as Microsoft gathers feedback from testers. This update builds on earlier changes that allowed users to switch between a simplified and full-featured Start Menu. By gradually reintroducing flexibility, Microsoft hopes to strike a balance between its modern design language and the productivity needs of its diverse user base. As with the taskbar changes, these Start Menu tweaks are first available in experimental builds and will be refined before a broader release.

The Lilbits roundup mentions a RISC-V router currently seeking crowdfunding. This project involves a consumer-grade router built around the RISC-V instruction set architecture (ISA), which is an open-standard alternative to proprietary designs like ARM or x86. RISC-V is known for its modularity, energy efficiency, and royalty-free nature, making it attractive for custom hardware projects. The crowdfunded router is likely aimed at tech enthusiasts, open-source advocates, and network admins who want a programmable, cost-effective solution. It may feature dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet ports, and a Linux-based operating system, allowing for advanced routing capabilities like VPN support, traffic shaping, or ad blocking. By leveraging RISC-V, backers could potentially gain more control over the hardware’s performance and security compared to typical routers. The campaign details—such as speed specifications, price tiers, and delivery dates—are not provided in the original article, but the effort reflects growing interest in open-source networking hardware.

Also featured in the Lilbits roundup is an E Ink color development kit. This kit provides hardware and software tools for creating prototypes with color e-paper displays. Unlike traditional black-and-white E Ink screens, the color variant can render up to thousands of colors using techniques like advanced color filters or sub-pixel layouts. The development kit typically includes a display module (e.g., 5.65 inches or larger), a controller board, cables, and sample code. It is designed for engineers, hobbyists, and product designers who want to integrate low-power, sunlight-readable color screens into devices like smart tags, digital signage, or e-readers. The kit simplifies the initial learning curve, allowing developers to test refresh rates, color accuracy, and power consumption quickly. E Ink’s color technology is especially valuable for applications where battery life is critical. The original article suggests this kit is now available, though pricing and specific model numbers were not detailed.

The original article was published on Liliputing, a blog that covers gadgets, open-source hardware, and PC trends. The specific post is titled “Lilbits: A RISC-V router (crowdfunding), an E Ink color dev kit, and Windows 11 taskbar customization,” and it appeared in the “Lilbits” series—a daily or weekly roundup of short tech news snippets. To read the full piece, visit the Liliputing website and search for that headline or browse the Lilbits archives. The article likely includes additional links to the crowdfunding page and the E Ink kit supplier. For Windows 11 news, Microsoft’s official Windows Insider blog is also a valuable resource. Checking these sources regularly will keep you updated on the latest developments regarding taskbar and Start Menu changes, as well as emerging hardware projects like the RISC-V router and color e-paper innovations.