Turning off News and Interests in Windows 10 is straightforward and quick. You simply need to access the taskbar settings, where you can disable this feature with a few clicks. This change can make your taskbar look cleaner and reduce distractions. Follow the steps below for a detailed tutorial.
How to Turn Off News and Interests in Windows 10
By completing the following steps, you will successfully remove the News and Interests widget from your taskbar in Windows 10.
Step 1: Right-click on the taskbar
Locate the taskbar at the bottom of your screen and right-click anywhere on it.
The context menu should appear when you right-click the taskbar. This menu provides various options to customize your taskbar.
Step 2: Hover over "News and Interests"
In the context menu, find the "News and Interests" option and hover over it.
Hovering over "News and Interests" will reveal a submenu with additional options related to this feature.
Step 3: Click on "Turn off"
In the submenu, click on "Turn off" to disable the News and Interests widget.
Once you click "Turn off", the News and Interests feature will be removed from your taskbar, giving it a cleaner look.
After completing these steps, the News and Interests widget will no longer be visible on your taskbar. This change should make your desktop experience less cluttered and more focused.
Tips for Turning Off News and Interests in Windows 10
- Explore other taskbar settings: While you’re adjusting the taskbar, take a moment to explore other settings that can further customize your experience.
- Keep your system updated: Regular Windows updates might bring new features or revert settings. Always ensure your system is up-to-date.
- Use Group Policy Editor: For advanced users, the Group Policy Editor can provide more granular control over Windows features.
- Check for performance improvements: Disabling unnecessary widgets can sometimes improve system performance, especially on older machines.
- Re-enable if needed: If you ever want to bring back News and Interests, you can follow the same steps and select "Show icon and text" instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn off News and Interests without affecting other taskbar icons?
Yes, turning off News and Interests will only remove that specific widget, leaving your other taskbar icons intact.
Will disabling News and Interests improve my computer’s performance?
While it might not lead to significant performance gains, removing unnecessary widgets can slightly improve system responsiveness.
How can I re-enable News and Interests if I change my mind?
Right-click the taskbar, hover over "News and Interests," and select "Show icon and text" to re-enable the feature.
Is there another way to disable News and Interests besides the taskbar menu?
Yes, advanced users can use the Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor to disable this feature.
Will turning off News and Interests remove the feature permanently?
No, it will only hide it. You can re-enable it anytime by following the same steps and choosing the appropriate option.
Summary
- Right-click on the taskbar.
- Hover over "News and Interests."
- Click on "Turn off."
Conclusion
Turning off News and Interests in Windows 10 is a simple task that can help declutter your taskbar and potentially improve your focus. Though this is a small adjustment, it can have a noticeable impact on your daily workflow by reducing distractions. If at any point you decide you miss the convenience of having quick news updates, you can easily re-enable the feature following the same steps.
Taking control of your desktop environment can significantly contribute to a more organized and efficient workspace. Feel free to explore other customization options in Windows 10 to tailor your experience further. For more tips and tricks on managing your Windows 10 settings, keep an eye on our upcoming articles.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.