Sometime we accidentally click on the X button to close a window only to realize that window was not be closed. But there is no use crying over the spilled milk, instead we can start using an open-source and free app called Trayy.
What is Trayy?
Trayy is a lightweight, open-source application with only one job – send selected apps to the system tray instead of closing their windows. It is very small in size and allows users to send specified applications to the system tray, reducing desktop clutter and enhancing workflow efficiency. It is definitely going to become a favorite for those who value a tidy taskbar.
Seamless System Tray Integration
Trayy’s primary function is to minimize applications to the system tray, even when users click the close button (X) on a window. For example, adding “Notepad” to Trayy’s app list ensures that any Notepad window minimizes to the tray instead of closing, keeping it accessible with a single click. This feature is particularly useful for applications like messaging apps or Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) that benefit from constant availability without occupying taskbar space.
Portable and Lightweight
Trayy is fully portable, requiring no installation. Users can download the Trayy.zip file (only 385 KB), extract it to a folder, and launch Trayy.exe. The application runs efficiently, using minimal system resources, and is compatible with Windows 10 and 11. Its portability makes it ideal for users who work across multiple devices or prefer not to modify their system with permanent installations. You can copy it to your pendrive and run it on any of your PC or even download it again (it is so small in size).
Customizable App List
To configure Trayy, users can double-click its system tray icon or right-click and select App List. This opens a simple interface where you can manually enter the names of applications (case-sensitive) you want to send to the tray. For apps that don’t natively support tray minimization, like Thunderbird, adding an asterisk (for example, Thunderbird*) enables Trayy to detect minimize or close actions by monitoring clicks on the titlebar’s top-right corner. After entering app names, clicking Save applies the settings instantly.
Taskbar Hiding and Notifications
Trayy offers an option to hide applications from the taskbar entirely, creating a cleaner desktop environment. For this, you have to select the option Do not show on taskbar from the App list interface itself. It also supports Windows toast notifications, ensuring you stay informed without needing to restore apps. Clicking a tray icon brings the app to the foreground, and if it’s already in focus, it returns to the tray, making app management intuitive and quick.
Conclusion
Trayy is a very useful application for Windows users seeking a clutter-free desktop without sacrificing accessibility. Its portability, ease of use, and ability to integrate apps into the system tray make it a must-have for productivity enthusiasts.
You can download Trayy from https://github.com/alirezagsm/Trayy.