In a notable shift for Windows 11 users, Microsoft is rolling out a redesigned Start menu that promises a more expansive and customizable experience. This new iteration, discovered by Windows enthusiast phantomofearth in recent builds, addresses a common user complaint regarding the recommended feed of files and apps, which many found intrusive and space-consuming.
The revamped Start menu now boasts a larger layout that consolidates functionality onto a single scrollable page. Users can finally disable the recommended feed, allowing for a cleaner interface tailored to individual preferences. This change is particularly welcomed by those transitioning from Windows 10, where the recommended feed was a prominent feature that not all users found beneficial.
- The new design allows for easy access to all apps without the need to navigate through multiple sections.
- Users can choose between a category view or a list format for their app display, enhancing personalization.
- The ability to pin up to eight apps per row, with no restrictions on the number of rows, significantly increases the Start menu’s utility.
Currently, Microsoft is testing this updated Start menu in the 24H2 builds of Windows 11, while also backporting it to the 23H2 versions. This strategic move indicates that a wider rollout to all Windows 11 users is on the horizon, likely within the next few weeks or months.