Taskbar Icons Dimmed by Window Shadows — Cumulative Overlay Bug?

Hi all,

I’ve noticed a recurring issue in Windows 11 that affects taskbar visibility when working with multiple windows. Specifically:

• When I snap or position windows near the taskbar (e.g. Edge, Word, pdf viewers, Photoshop), their shadow overlays dim the taskbar icons and clock.
• This dimming effect intensifies with each additional window, to the point where the taskbar becomes unreadable.
• The issue isn’t limited to snapped windows—any window close enough to the taskbar causes shadow bleed.
• Clicking on the taskbar temporarily restores clarity, suggesting a rendering priority shift.
• App-specific behavior: The shadow overlay issue does not occur with certain apps like SDL Trados Studio. Studio uses a compact drop shadow that barely affects the taskbar, even when positioned directly above it. In contrast, apps like Word and Edge cast large Fluent Design shadows that stack and obscure the taskbar. This suggests the issue is tied to Fluent Design adoption and rendering style.

I’ve reproduced this with up to 8 windows, and the cumulative shadowing fully obscures the taskbar. It seems to be a Fluent Design rendering flaw where shadows stack without respecting the taskbar’s visual priority.

For users working with split-screen or multi-window workflows, this isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a usability issue. There’s currently no setting to suppress or override these shadows.

Would love to hear if others have noticed this, and whether Microsoft might consider a fix or toggle in future updates.

Thanks! — Firewine