Learn how to remove the notification bell icon next to the date and time on the taskbar on Windows 11.
By default, Windows 11 displays a bell icon, also known as the notifications icon, right next to the date and time on the taskbar. Typically, it alerts you to any new and unseen notifications. Clicking the icon opens the notification center, where you can see, open, and clear unnecessary notifications.
While the notification bell icon is pretty useful for seeing if you have any new notifications that need your attention, it also occupies a precious space on the taskbar. Additionally, if you disabled notifications on Windows 11, you no longer need the bell icon. Thankfully, you can easily remove the notification bell icon on the taskbar via Settings. This tutorial shows you how. Let’s get started.
Remove Notification Bell Icon on Taskbar in Windows 11
- Open Settings using the “Windows key + I” shortcut.
- Go to the “System” tab on the sidebar.
- Click the “Notifications” option on the right page.
- Click and expand the “Notifications” section.
- Uncheck the “Show notification bell icon” checkbox.
- With that, the notification bell icon is removed from the taskbar.
Detailed Steps (With Screenshots)
First, launch the Settings window by pressing the “Windows key + I” shortcut. Alternatively, right-click the Windows icon on the taskbar and select “Settings”. Once it opens, navigate to the “System” tab on the sidebar and then click the “Notifications” option on the right panel.
On this page, click the “Notifications” option at the top of the right page to expand it. You can also click the small down arrow displayed to the rightmost side of the Notification option.
Now, uncheck the “Show notification bell icon“, and you are done.
As soon as you uncheck the option, the notification bell icon is removed from the taskbar. You will still receive notifications, and you can open the notification center by clicking the date and time on the taskbar or by pressing the “Windows key + N” shortcut.
That is all. It is that simple to hide or remove the notification icon on the taskbar. If you want to display it again, simply follow the same steps, but instead of unchecking, check the “Show notification bell icon” checkbox.
If you have any questions or need help, comment below. I’ll be happy to assist.
Good to read: How to disable notification sound in Windows 11
