Others

How to Fix OneNote for Windows 11 Not Showing Rounded Notebook Tabs

Natalie Taylor Oct 23, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is unable to see the new rounded notebook tabs in OneNote for Windows 11, despite having the updated ribbon interface.

How to Fix OneNote for Windows 11 Not Showing Rounded Notebook Tabs

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Using the updated OneNote desktop application on Windows 11 and expecting the refreshed user interface.
Observed behavior: The OneNote application displays the older rectangular notebook tabs instead of the newly designed rounded tabs.

Before you start

Ensure your Windows 11 operating system is fully up to date and you are logged into your Microsoft account in the OneNote app.

Solution 1Recommended

Update OneNote and Verify Windows Settings

Check for the latest app updates in the Microsoft Store and see if the rounded corners option is available in your system personalization settings.

Open the Microsoft Store

Click the Start button on your Windows 11 taskbar, search for 'Microsoft Store', and open the application.

Check for App Updates

Navigate to 'Library' in the bottom left corner and click the 'Get updates' button to ensure OneNote is running the latest version.

Open Windows Settings

Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Windows Settings app.

Check Personalization Settings

Go to 'Personalization' (or Appearance) and look for an option to enable rounded corners or tabs, if it is available on your build.

Interface Updates: Some visual settings are controlled directly by Windows 11's global appearance preferences.

Solution 2

Wait for the Feature Rollout to Reach Your Account

Microsoft releases UI updates in phases, meaning the feature may not be available for all users simultaneously.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Experience a Modern and Unified Interface with WPS Office

If you are frustrated by inconsistent interface updates across Microsoft apps, consider switching to WPS Office. It offers a sleek, unified, and modern tabbed workspace out of the box, fully compatible with all major document formats.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your device.
2. Install and Launch: Run the installer and open WPS Office to experience the unified tabbed workspace.
3. Open Your Files Seamlessly: Drag and drop your existing Microsoft Office files directly into WPS Office to continue your work without formatting loss.

Unified, modern tabbed interface across all document typesFully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDF filesLightweight installation with fast startup timesFree to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate design

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some users have rounded tabs in OneNote while I don't?

Microsoft often uses A/B testing and phased rollouts for UI changes. This means some accounts receive the update before others, even if both devices are running the exact same app version.

Can I force OneNote to update to the new interface?

No, you cannot force a server-side UI update. Keeping your app updated via the Microsoft Store ensures you will get the new design as soon as Microsoft enables it for your account.

Does the tab shape affect OneNote's functionality?

No, the change from rectangular to rounded notebook tabs is purely cosmetic. All your notes, syncing features, and organizational tools remain exactly the same.

Office Quick Solutions