How to Add or Remove Bluetooth Notification Icon on Taskbar in Windows 11
Managing the Bluetooth notification icon on your Windows 11 taskbar is a common task.
You can add or remove the Bluetooth icon by right-clicking it on the taskbar and selecting “Remove Icon,” or by going to Settings Bluetooth & devices Devices More Bluetooth settings and toggling the “Show the Bluetooth icon” option.
What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a wireless technology connecting your computer to gadgets like phones, headphones, or mice without cables. This short-range radio link lets you share files or use accessories without plugging them in. It’s useful for connecting many devices, such as:
- Mobile phones
- Wireless headsets
- Speakers
- Fitness trackers
- Mouse and keyboard
When Bluetooth is active in Windows 11, its icon appears in the taskbar corner, giving you a visual cue. The icon disappears from the taskbar corner when you turn off the Bluetooth feature, indicating its inactive status.
Option 1Remove the Icon Quickly
- Look for the Bluetooth icon in the taskbar corner (bottom right of your screen).
- Click on the Bluetooth icon.
- Click on Remove Icon.
Option 2Add or Remove the Icon Using Settings
The Settings app lets you add or remove the Bluetooth icon from your Windows 11 taskbar. Follow a few steps within the Bluetooth settings to make the icon appear or disappear as you prefer.
- Open Settings by pressing ⊞ Win+I on your keyboard.
- Click on Bluetooth & devices on the left side.
- Click on Devices on the right side.
- Click on More Bluetooth settings under Related settings.
- In the Options tab, check the box next to Show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area to add the icon. Uncheck it to remove the icon.
- Click OK.
- You can now close Settings.
Option 3Add or Remove the Icon Using Registry Editor
⚠️ Administrator permissions are required
To add the Bluetooth icon:
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Bluetooth" /v "Notification Area Icon" /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /fTo remove the Bluetooth icon:
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Bluetooth" /v "Notification Area Icon" /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /fSummary
This guide has shown you how to manage the Bluetooth icon on your Windows 11 taskbar using different methods.
How do I show the Bluetooth icon on my taskbar?
You'll get this popup. Then, you can click 'Show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area,' press Apply, and then OK. You'll see the icon is now being shown.
Why has Bluetooth disappeared from my taskbar?
This issue can happen for several reasons: incorrect Bluetooth settings, old or incompatible drivers, system services that have stopped, hardware problems, or glitches from recent Windows updates.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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