Introduction
In Windows 11, the taskbar is designed to display app icons along with their names for easy navigation. However, some users have reported an issue where the taskbar shows selected window titles instead of the app name.
Symptoms
For example, Chrome might show the title of the open tab (e.g., "20-Hour Nightclub Cleaner") instead of the app name "Chrome".
Cause
The exact cause of this issue is not known, but it could be due to a system glitch, a recent update, or a conflict with third-party software.
Resolution
Method 1: Restart Explorer.exe
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click on the "More details" button if it's not already expanded.
3. Right-click on "Windows Explorer" and select "Restart".
Method 2: Run System File Checker
1. Press Windows key + X and select "Windows Terminal (Admin)".
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
`sfc /scannow`
Method 3: Reset Taskbar Settings
1. Right-click on an empty space on the taskbar.
2. Click on "Taskbar settings".
3. Scroll down and click on "Reset" under "Taskbar behaviors".
Prevention
To prevent this issue from occurring again, keep your system updated, avoid installing unnecessary third-party software, and regularly scan your system for malware.
References
- Microsoft Support: Taskbar not showing app icons or names in Windows 11
- TenForums: Fix: Taskbar showing window titles instead of app names in Windows 11