As a Windows expert with over a decade of troubleshooting experience, I've helped countless users customize their taskbars for peak efficiency. Microsoft introduced the Meet Now button in Windows 10 version 20H2 to simplify video calls via Skype, but it's often unnecessary if you prefer Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Here's what Meet Now is and three reliable methods to remove it from your taskbar.
Originally a Skype feature, Meet Now now appears as a convenient shortcut in the system tray next to the date and time. Click it to start a video call, generate a shareable link, and invite participants—no Skype account required for joiners, just the link and password. It's designed for quick, seamless calls without downloads.
While handy, it clutters the taskbar for many. Follow these proven steps to hide it.
This is the fastest method. Right-click the Meet Now icon on the taskbar and select Hide. It's gone instantly, with no restarts needed.
For more control, use the Settings app:
Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Personalization > Taskbar.
Step 3: Under Notification area, click Turn system icons on or off.
Step 4: Toggle off Meet Now.
Pro tip: Search "system icons" in Settings for direct access.
Power users on qualifying editions can enforce this system-wide:
Step 1: Press Windows key, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar.
Step 3: Double-click Remove the Meet Now icon, set to Enabled, and apply.
Restart your PC. Note: Avoid Registry edits unless experienced—incorrect changes can destabilize your system.
You can't fully uninstall Meet Now, but these methods keep your taskbar clean. In my testing, it works reliably across Windows 10 builds. If taskbar icons vanish afterward, check our guide on fixing missing Windows 10 taskbar icons.
