The Windows Start menu is poised for its first significant redesign since 2021, with the rollout scheduled for November 11, coinciding with the Patch Tuesday update. This update introduces a scrollable Start menu, allowing users to navigate through their applications seamlessly in one unified space.
Previously, accessing the list of installed applications required a click on the “All apps” section, but now this feature is conveniently placed on the main screen, eliminating the need to navigate to a separate page.
The Start menu has two UIs for the All apps list
The redesigned Start menu offers two user interface options for the “All apps” list. By default, the categories view is enabled, which organizes applications by type and prioritizes frequently used apps at the top of each category. These categories are generated locally and stored in a JSON file, with a new category forming when there are at least three apps. Apps that do not meet this threshold are grouped under “Other.”
For those who prefer a more traditional layout, a grid view is also available, maintaining the classic A to Z order but with a wider format that allows for easier scanning of applications. Windows will remember the last view used, but it will default to the categories view after the update unless changed by the user.
The new Start menu UI is adaptive
This adaptive menu adjusts to fit the size of your screen. On larger displays, users can expect to see a more extensive Start menu featuring up to eight columns of pinned apps, six recommendations, and four columns in the “All” categories. Conversely, smaller screens will display six columns of pinned apps, four recommendations, and three columns in the “All” categories. If only a few apps are pinned, the Pinned area will condense to a single row, allowing other sections to shift upward.
You can now remove the Recommended feed
For those who prefer a streamlined experience without recommendations, the option to disable this feature is straightforward. By navigating to Settings, then Personalization, and finally Start, users can toggle off options for recently added apps, recommended files, websites from your history, and tips. When recommendations are turned off, that section will automatically hide, providing a clearer view of installed applications.
The new Start menu is better, but it needs these two fixes
While the new Start menu represents a significant improvement, it does have its drawbacks, particularly on lower resolution PCs, where it can occupy 60-70% of the screen. Users experiencing UI issues may find relief by adjusting the scale settings under Settings > System > Display. Additionally, the ability to create custom categories would enhance user experience, as many applications may end up in the “Other” category due to the current grouping criteria.
How to get the new Start menu
The new Start menu UI will begin its rollout with the November 2025 Patch Tuesday, with completion expected over the following years. This updated Start UI is part of Build 26200.7019 and 26100.7019 or newer, though it will not be activated by default upon installation.
