For many, the revamped Start menu in Windows 11, while aesthetically pleasing to some, introduced usability issues that left long-time Windows users scratching their heads. The separation of pinned apps and the “All apps” list behind an extra click, coupled with the often irrelevant “Recommended” section hogging valuable screen real estate, became a significant pain point. Users yearned for the flexibility and customizability of the Windows 10 Start menu. It seems Microsoft has finally listened.
Recent reports and previews within the Windows Insider program reveal a significant overhaul to the Start menu. The most noticeable change? It’s bigger. This increased size allows for a more comprehensive view of your applications without the need for excessive scrolling. Imagine opening your Start menu and seeing a vast array of your favorite apps laid out before you, ready to launch with a single click. This expanded canvas promises to improve navigation and reduce the time spent searching for the app you need.
But the size isn’t the only improvement. Perhaps the most welcome change is the ability to finally disable the “Recommended” section. For many users, this section felt cluttered with recently opened files and sometimes unwanted app suggestions, taking up valuable space that could be better used for pinned applications. The new design allows users to reclaim this space and prioritize their frequently used programs. This simple yet powerful change addresses a core complaint and allows for a more personalized and efficient Start menu experience.
Furthermore, the new Start menu design appears to integrate the “All apps” list directly onto the main screen. No more clicking an extra button to access your complete application library. Everything is now readily available in a single, scrollable view. This streamlined approach brings back a sense of familiarity for users accustomed to previous versions of Windows, making it easier to find and launch less frequently used applications.
Early glimpses of the redesigned Start menu also suggest enhanced customization options. While details are still emerging, there are indications that users will have more control over the layout and organization of their pinned apps and the overall appearance of the menu. Some reports even hint at the return of features like categorized folders within the “All apps” list, reminiscent of the app library on other operating systems. This level of customization will empower users to tailor the Start menu to their specific workflows and preferences, ultimately boosting productivity.
The move to a larger, more customizable Start menu with the option to remove the “Recommended” section signals a significant shift in Microsoft’s approach to the Windows 11 user interface. It acknowledges the feedback from users and demonstrates a willingness to address pain points that have been present since the initial release of the operating system. This update could be a game-changer for many, transforming the Start menu from a source of frustration to a genuinely useful and efficient tool.
While this redesigned Start menu is currently being tested within the Windows Insider program, the positive reception it has garnered suggests a strong possibility of it being rolled out to all Windows 11 users in a future update. For those who have been longing for a more traditional and customizable Start menu experience, this news will undoubtedly be met with enthusiasm.
