customizable Start menu

Winsage
February 24, 2025
Windows 11 is testing a new preview build (22635.4950) in the Beta channel, featuring enhancements for user experience. Notable updates include a revamped file-sharing feature that allows drag-and-drop functionality to applications like WhatsApp, My Phone, and Microsoft Teams. The Start menu is being redesigned with options for a grid view and a category view in the 'All apps' section. The grid view expands horizontally to display more apps, while the category view organizes apps into groups based on function. The update also improves accessibility support in File Explorer and addresses several bugs. These features are expected to appear in Dev builds soon and are nearing public release.
Winsage
November 20, 2024
Microsoft has introduced a new feature called "Microsoft 365 Companions" during the Microsoft Ignite 2024 event. This feature integrates shortcuts for People, Files, and Calendar into the taskbar for Windows users, aimed at improving productivity and user experience. It allows users to customize their taskbar for quicker access to important contacts and deadlines. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Windows 11 as a productive environment. Earlier in the year, Microsoft also launched customizable Start Menu Companions to further promote personalization and efficiency.
Winsage
November 3, 2024
Windows XP was known for its user-friendly interface and performance, leading to a community-driven desire for customization. Notable contributions included BricoPacks, which were comprehensive suites of software and tweaks that enhanced the operating system. These packs provided features such as a sleek dock for applications, revamped window styling and cursors, new wallpapers and taskbar designs, and customizable start menus. Customizing Windows XP required technical skills and experimentation, supported by active forums. Today, customization options remain available for Windows, and Bricopacks can still be downloaded for use with Windows XP virtual machines.
Winsage
September 19, 2024
AR 4789 has envisioned a potential design for Windows 12, showcasing a sleek and minimalist interface similar to macOS, featuring a floating dock and a top-positioned taskbar. The concept includes an installation process that allows gaming during setup, a "Tool for Focus" to minimize distractions, a revamped File Explorer with enhanced Quick Access and recent files layout, and customizable Start Menu options. Users can choose from various integrated wallpapers and toggle between Light and Dark Modes. The concept also includes Copilot for creating multiple desktops and different Start Menu layouts. Although initially rumored to debut this year, focus has shifted to the 24H2 update, as Windows 10 remains dominant with support until October 2025.
Winsage
September 6, 2024
Windows 11 has several shortcomings that affect user experience, prompting the desire for enhancements that could be integrated into the operating system. 1. A fully transparent taskbar is desired, as the current Mica effect lacks translucency. 2. An automatic dark mode feature is missing, which could be implemented similarly to brightness adjustments based on ambient light. 3. The Start menu customization options are limited, with users wanting the ability to remove the Recommended section and organize apps more effectively. 4. Users prefer alternative file managers over Windows File Explorer, but Microsoft does not allow easy changes to the default file manager. 5. Flow Launcher and PowerToys Run provide superior application launching capabilities compared to the built-in search bar. 6. There is no built-in option to adjust brightness across multiple monitors, leaving users reliant on monitor buttons or third-party software. 7. PowerToys FancyZones allows for custom app placement zones, enhancing multitasking beyond the standard snapping feature in Windows.
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