One of the recent updates from Microsoft for Windows 10 included the Weather widget on the taskbar. While it is designed to deliver weather updates and news at a glance, not every user finds it helpful or appealing.
In this article, we will discuss the causes of this feature’s presence and step-by-step solutions to remove the weather from your taskbar in Windows 10.
What is the Weather and News Feature on the Windows 10 Taskbar?
The Weather and News feature on the Windows 10 Taskbar, also known as “News and Interests,” is a widget that Microsoft added as a part of their update in 2021.
This widget provides quick and easy access to various information right from your taskbar without having to open a browser or a separate app.
The information displayed in this widget includes weather updates, latest news headlines, sports scores, and stock market information.
The news and information delivered are personalized based on your location and interests. If you want to explore any piece of news in more detail, you can click on it, and it will open up in your default web browser.
Should You Remove the Weather and News Widget from Your Taskbar?
Whether or not you should remove the Weather and News widget from your Windows 10 Taskbar largely depends on your personal preference and how you use your computer. Here are some points to consider:
Benefits of Keeping the Widget:
Quick Access to Information: The widget provides a convenient way to stay updated with the latest news, weather, stocks, and more without having to browse different websites or use separate apps.
Personalization: It curates content based on your interests and location, so the information you receive is relevant to you.
Integration with Windows 10: The widget is smoothly integrated into the Windows 10 interface and is not disruptive to the overall user experience.
Reasons to Remove the Widget:
Taskbar Clutter: Some users may find that the widget adds unnecessary clutter to the taskbar, especially if they prefer a minimalistic desktop or need the taskbar space for other apps and tools.
Distractions: Regular updates from the widget can be distracting for users who prefer to focus on their work without interruptions.
Data and Privacy Concerns: Some users may not be comfortable with the data collection required for personalized content.
Resource Consumption: The widget uses system resources for its operation, which can slightly affect the performance of low-end systems.
How to Remove Weather on Taskbar Windows 10
Follow these solutions to Remove Weather on Taskbar Windows 10:
1. Disable the Weather Forecast Widget Through the Taskbar of the System
Step 1: Right-click anywhere on the taskbar.
Step 2: Navigate to “News and interests” in the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Select “Turn off.”
2. Disable ‘Open on Hover’ of News and Interests
Step 1: Right-click on the taskbar.
Step 2: Go to “News and interests.”
Step 3: Choose “Open on hover” to uncheck it.
3. Only Show Icon of the News and Interests Widget on the Taskbar
Step 1: Right-click on the taskbar.
Step 2: Navigate to “News and interests.”
Step 3: Select “Show icon only.”
4. Reduce Taskbar Updates of the Weather Forecast Widget
Step 1: Right-click on the taskbar.
Step 2: Navigate to “News and interests.”
Step 3: Click “Reduce taskbar updates.”
5. Disable the News and Interests Widget Through the Group Policy Editor
(Note: This option is available only for Windows 10 Pro users)
Step 1: Press “Windows + R” keys, type “gpedit.msc,” and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to “User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar.”
Step 3: Find “Remove the News and Interests icon from the taskbar” and double-click on it.
Step 4: Select “Enabled,” then click “Apply,” and finally, “OK.”
6. Disable the News and Interests Widget Through the Registry Editor of Your System
Step 1: Press “Windows + R” keys, type “regedit,” and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to “HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Feeds.”
Step 3: Right-click on “Feeds,” select “New > DWORD (32-bit) Value,” and name it “ShellFeedsTaskbarViewMode.”
Step 4: Double-click on the new DWORD and set its value data to “2” to disable the widget. Click “OK.”
Conclusion
In this article, we have explained how to remove the Weather widget on the Windows 10 taskbar using multiple methods.
Choose the one that best suits your preferences and follow the steps carefully to avoid any system errors. Now, you can enjoy a clutter-free taskbar on your Windows 10 system!
Remember, changes in system files or settings should always be performed cautiously. If you are unsure, seek assistance from an IT professional or contact Microsoft support.
Should you have any questions or require further assistance, feel free to leave a comment below. We are here to help!
