Microsoft is constantly adding new features to Windows 11 to the point that recent builds can’t be compared to the beginning. The latest big update 24H2 brought a set of new features that made the OS more attractive for those who were still on Windows 10. However, there are many more features planned for the future. With the end of Windows 10 support nearing the shores, Windows 11 will remain Microsoft’s official Operating System for Computers with long-term support. This support means more updates that will improve and make Windows 11 different from what it was in the first build. With that in mind, Microsoft is testing a new feature that adds a battery percentage icon to the taskbar—something users have wanted for years. It’s currently available to Windows Insiders, but there’s no word on when it will reach all Windows 11 users.
How To Add Battery Percentage to the Status Bar Ahead of Windows 11 Update
Fortunately, you don’t have to wait. Several apps let you keep your battery percentage visible at all times. If you’re on Windows 10 or an older Windows 11 build, you might never get this feature, making these apps even more useful. Here are some ways to check your battery percentage on Windows right now.
1 – Using BatteryBar to Display Battery Percentage
Battery Bar is a handy app that lets you monitor your battery percentage. While it was originally designed for older Windows versions, it offers a unique feature—you can place the battery icon and percentage anywhere on the screen. Here’s how to set it up:
- Step 1: Visit the Battery Bar website and click Download to get the free version.
- Step 2: Run the installer and follow the instructions until you reach the Choose Components page.
- Step 3: If you’re using Windows 11, the default BatteryBar toolbar won’t work, so do this instead:
- Uncheck the BatteryBar Toolbar (recommended).
- Check BatteryBar Floating Toolbar (the two sub-options will be selected automatically—leave them enabled).
- Step 4: Click Next to complete the installation.
Restart your computer, and the BatteryBar indicator should appear on your screen. By default, it shows the estimated time remaining, but you can click on it to switch to the battery percentage. You can also drag the floating indicator anywhere on the screen and resize it as needed.
If you’re using Windows 10, you can stick with the default installation settings. The BatteryBar will appear on your taskbar, working much the same way. However, you won’t be able to move or resize the indicator. If you prefer, the floating option is also available in Windows 10.
2 – Enabling Battery Percentage from Settings App
If you’re running the latest Insider Preview that has the battery percentage feature. You can easily enable it via the Settings app. If you didn’t find the option, we can help you in a few steps.
- Step 1: Open the Settings app. You can do this from the Start menu or by pressing the Win + I keys.
- Step 2: Click System on the left-hand side.
- Step 3: In the System settings, find and select Power & Battery.
- Step 4: Expand the Battery section. You’ll see a toggle labeled Show battery percentage. Click the toggle to turn it on.
3 – Enabling the Option Using ViveTools
If the setting isn’t showing up for you, you can try using ViveTool. This requires being on a Windows Insider build. If you’re not an Insider, you’ll need to sign up for the program first.
- Step 1: Open your web browser and go to the ViveTool GitHub page.
- Step 2: Scroll down to the downloads section and download ViVeTool-v0.3.3-ARM64CLR.zip (or the latest available version).
- Step 3: Extract the downloaded ZIP file.
- Step 4: Open the extracted folder.
- Step 5: Copy the path to the extracted folder from the File Explorer address bar.
- Step 6: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, then right-click and select “Run as administrator.”
- Step 8: In the Command Prompt window, type
cd(that’s “cd” followed by a space) and then paste the path you copied earlier. It should look something like this:cd C:\folder\path\ViveTool-v0.x.x. Press Enter. - Step 9: Now, paste the following command and hit Enter:
vivetool /enable /id:48822452,48433719. - Step 10: Restart your computer. After rebooting, check your Settings app to see if the battery percentage option is available.
Other Options Available
Other apps can display the battery percentage at all times. One option on the Microsoft Store is the Battery Percentage Icon. Unfortunately, it is not working properly with Windows 11. So it is less convenient for those using the latest OS. It’s still useful on Windows 10. It also offers customization options, like changing the colors of the battery indicator at different levels and setting up battery warnings—features that BatteryBar doesn’t provide in its free version.
If you’re not willing to wait for Microsoft to add the battery percentage icon, the use of third-party apps is the most valid option. This feature should have been part of Windows a long time ago, but fortunately, third-party developers have stepped in to fill the gap.
In conclusion, while Windows 11 may not have the battery percentage icon feature readily available, there are several workarounds to get this functionality right now. Tools like BatteryBar, ViveTool, and other third-party apps such as Battery Percentage Icon offer easy ways to display the battery percentage on your taskbar or screen. Whether through system settings or external software, users no longer have to wait for Microsoft to implement this feature, ensuring a more convenient and personalized experience for all Windows users.