How to delete or hide the Teams icon from Windows taskbar?

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Here’s a question from our Facebook group:

I recently upgraded to Windows 11, and I’ve noticed that the Microsoft Teams icon is constantly present on my taskbar. While I use Teams occasionally for work, I find it distracting to have it there all the time. I’ve tried right-clicking and looking for options to remove it, but I can’t seem to find a straightforward way to get rid of it. How can I remove or hide the Teams icon from my taskbar without uninstalling the entire application?

Hiding Microsoft Teams form taskbar

The Teams icon is part of Windows 11’s integrated communication features. Removing it from the taskbar doesn’t uninstall the app; it simply hides the icon. This method preserves functionality while reducing visual clutter.
Windows 11 introduced more granular control over system tray icons, allowing users to customize their taskbar experience without affecting app installations.

  • Press Win + I on your keyboard, or alternatively, right-click the Start button and select “Settings” to open your Windows settings app.
  • Navigate to the Personalization section.
  • Click on “Personalization” in the left sidebar.
  • Select the Taskbar settings.
  • Scroll down and click on “Taskbar” in the right pane.
  • Locate the System tray icons section.
  • Then – scroll down to find “Taskbar corner icons” or “System tray icons”.
  • Last, go ahead and then proceed to turn off the Teams icon – Find “Chat” or “Microsoft Teams” in the list.
  • Toggle the switch to the “Off” position.
  • Check your taskbar, the Teams icon should now be hidden.

Can’t remove the Teams icon from system tray?

If the Teams icon persists after following these steps:

  • Restart your computer to ensure changes take effect.
  • Check for Windows updates, as some issues may be resolved in recent patches.
  • If using a work Windows account, your organization might enforce the Teams icon display – you might want to consult your IT department.
  • Try uninstalling and reinstalling the Teams app if the issue persists.

Restoring Teams in Windows taskbar

If you have successfully removed Teams off the vertical or horizontal Windows bar, and would like to restore the Teams icon, read this post.