Unpin Skype Icon from Taskbar in Windows 7

Addressing Persistent Skype Icons on the Windows 7 Taskbar

Following an upgrade to Windows 7 from Vista, numerous improvements were observed in system performance and usability. Previously encountered issues, such as the unreliable disk management utility in Vista, were resolved. Furthermore, a dual-boot setup with Ubuntu 10.10 experienced increased stability, eliminating frequent kernel panics.

Windows 7 Taskbar and Integrated Applications

While Windows 7 offers a wealth of beneficial features, comprehensively detailed in available resources like the free Windows 7 PDF manual, the redesigned taskbar – often referred to as the superbar – represents a particularly significant alteration. This new taskbar introduces enhanced previews and jumplists. However, a certain behavior can prove undesirable.

Certain applications exhibit a tendency to persistently integrate with the taskbar, causing their icons to remain pinned even after closing the application window. This can be frustrating, especially when the application is already represented in the system tray. ZScreen and Skype are examples of programs known to demonstrate this behavior.

Removing Persistent Skype Icons

Two distinct methods can be employed to remove the persistently displayed Skype icon from the Windows 7 taskbar. The optimal approach is contingent upon the specific version of Skype installed. One method is simpler, as it avoids the need to restart the application.

The first method’s success depends on the Skype version in use and is generally less disruptive. It circumvents the necessity of a Skype application restart.

Here's a breakdown of the available solutions:

Method 1: Version-Dependent Approach (No Restart Required)
Method 2: Alternative Removal Technique

Further instructions will detail each method, providing a comprehensive guide to resolving this taskbar icon issue.

Removing the Skype Taskbar Icon via Built-in Settings

To begin, launch the Skype application and access the menu bar at the top of your screen.

From there, find and select the Tools menu option.

Within the Tools menu, locate and click on Options.

This will open a new window; navigate to the Advanced tab and select it.

On the right-hand side of the Advanced Settings window, you will find a setting labeled Keep Skype on the taskbar while I'm signed in.

Deselect this checkbox and then click OK to return to the primary Skype interface.

The Skype icon should now be removed from your taskbar.

Should this method prove unsuccessful, or if you are utilizing a different Skype version lacking this specific checkbox, further instructions are provided below.

Adjusting Compatibility Settings for Skype

If you're running a current Skype version and the Keep Skype on the taskbar feature isn't visible, a compatibility adjustment may be necessary. Begin by typing "Skype" into the Start menu search field.

Then, right-click on the Skype program icon within the search results and select Properties from the context menu.

Compatibility Tab Configuration

Within the Properties window, navigate to the Compatibility tab. Locate and check the box labeled Run this program in compatibility mode for.

From the dropdown menu, choose a prior operating system, specifically Windows Vista (Service Pack 2). This setting can sometimes resolve display issues with newer software.

After selecting the compatibility mode, click OK to save the changes. Completely close and then relaunch Skype to apply the new settings.

You may initially observe only the Skype icon in the system tray. However, if the persistent taskbar icon remains, experiment with alternative operating system selections within the Skype Properties dialog.

In some instances, selecting simply "Windows Vista" – without Service Pack 2 – can prove effective.

Are you experiencing issues with the taskbar icon? Share your feedback in the comments section below!