5

I want to remove an icon from my taskbar without closing the window itself. To be clear, I'm talking about the taskbar:

enter image description here

Not the system tray:

enter image description here

My current solution is using RBTray which minimizes a program to the system tray and removes its icon from the taskbar. The issue with this is that the program is minimized and cannot be opened again until I click the tray icon, which puts it back in the taskbar. I'm fine with it being sent to the tray, but I don't want the window to go away.

Improve this question
5
  • While I don't think this is possible, maybe this method to make the icon nearly invisible, will help you: sevenforums.com/tutorials/…
    – Yisroel Tech
    Commented Feb 3, 2016 at 3:29
  • All of those answers minimize the program
    – Jon
    Commented Feb 3, 2016 at 6:45
  • 1
    This question has not been asked before (note the unminimized) and still has not an answer. Those answers do not fully address this question and, though the OP asked here as a new (and more precise) question, has been marked as duplicate. @YisroelTech I know programs that open interactive windows without affecting the taskbar (I use the old Pinnacle PCTV Remote, that creates a tray icon but never appears on taskbar not even when you configure the port used). Anyway, someone should provide a documented answer explaining why this is impossible, if it is so. Please remove the 'duplicate'.
    – cdlvcdlv
    Commented Jul 14, 2017 at 16:13
  • I've got the same exact need (and am using RBTray right now too).... can't find a thing :(
    – zacaj
    Commented Feb 22, 2020 at 2:24
  • I'm wanting to do this too for the Volume Mixer utility (sndvol.exe).
    – Kravimir
    Commented Jul 17, 2023 at 22:26

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
3

With Windows 10, you have the ability to create virtual desktops. The programs running on these desktops will not show up at all on other desktops. You could open the window on a separate desktop and switch back when you need it.

How to find virtual desktops:

Task View Button

Create a new desktop:

Create Desktop Button

To switch desktops, just hit Task View again and your desktops will be at the bottom of your screen with a preview of that desktop for you to choose between.

Improve this answer
2
  • 1
    I need all the windows to be open at the same time unfortunately, so this idea would not work for me. It is a very interesting solution though!
    – Jon
    Commented Feb 3, 2016 at 0:05
  • Well, I hope you find your solution.
    – TickTock
    Commented Feb 3, 2016 at 0:33

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .