What is the Group Similar Taskbar Buttons option?

What is the Group Similar Taskbar Buttons option?

The Group Similar Taskbar Buttons option is a new feature of Windows® XP. When executing multiple tasks using the same application, they are grouped in one button on the taskbar.

Note:
Grouping occurs when there is insufficient space on the taskbar to display an acceptable amount of text for each button. The program that was opened first is grouped first. Items will be ungrouped when more room becomes available on the taskbar.

The functions of the Group Similar Taskbar Buttons option are as below.
- Clustering
Jobs being executed on the same program are shown side by side on the taskbar.

- Grouping
Jobs being executed on the same program are grouped in one button on the taskbar.

Note:
When multiple programs are launched, some buttons do not appear in the taskbar and a dark square is displayed at the far right of the taskbar. To display the hidden taskbar buttons, click the down arrow of the dark square.

To clear the Group Similar Taskbar Buttons option, please follow the steps below.
1. Click Start, point to Settings and click Control Panel.
2. Click Appearance and Themes.
3. Click Taskbar and Start Menu.
4. Clear the Group similar taskbar buttons option.
5. Click OK.

For more information, please refer to the following solution in Microsoft's technical support website.
Article ID: Q281629
Last Reviewed: August 04, 2001
Title: Description of the Group Similar Taskbar Buttons option