- To change the position of indicators for volume, brightness, and others, open Settings > System > Notifications, and use the “Position of on-screen indicators” setting.
On Windows 11, you can now change the position of the hardware indicators, such as volume, brightness, airplane mode, and others, and in this guide, I’ll show you how to complete this configuration.
As part of the October 2025 Security Update, Microsoft rolled out a bunch of new features and changes, and among them, the company started rolling out a setting to change on-screen indicators, so you can change the placement to the top left, top center, or bottom center.
In this guide, I’ll outline the steps to display volume, brightness, and other indicators in different locations on the screen in Windows 11.
Change hardware indicator position on Windows 11
To change the position of hardware indicators, follow these steps:
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Open Settings on Windows 11.
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Click on System.
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Click the Notifications page.
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Choose the new location from “Top left,” “Top center,” or “Bottom center” using the “Position of on-screen indicators” setting.
Once you complete the steps, the next time you raise or lower the volume, change brightness, or adjust a setting that includes an indicator, then it’ll appear in the region of the screen you specified.
FAQs about indicator position on Windows 11
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers regarding changing the location of hardware indicators.
What are on-screen indicators in Windows 11?
On-screen indicators are visual overlays that appear when you adjust hardware features such as volume, brightness, airplane mode, or camera privacy. They provide quick feedback for these system actions.
Can I move the on-screen indicators anywhere on the screen?
No. Windows 11 only allows you to move the indicators to predefined positions: Top left, Top center, or Bottom center of the screen.
Where can I find the setting to change the indicator position?
You can find the option in Settings > System > Notifications under the “Position of on-screen indicators” setting.
When did Microsoft add this feature to Windows 11?
Microsoft introduced this option as part of the October 2025 Security Update, which includes several small quality-of-life improvements.
Does changing the indicator position affect all indicators?
Yes. Once you select a new position, it applies globally to all supported indicators, such as volume, brightness, airplane mode, camera privacy, and others.
Can I customize each indicator’s position separately?
No. Windows 11 currently uses a single setting that changes the position for all on-screen indicators at once.
Do I need to restart my computer after changing the indicator position?
No. The new position takes effect immediately after you select it in Settings.
Why can’t I see the “Position of on-screen indicators” option?
The feature is rolling out gradually through the October 2025 Security Update and may not be available to all devices right away. Make sure your system is fully updated from Settings > Windows Update.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of Pureinfotech in 2010. With over 22 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.
Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.
Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.
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