Revamped Windows 11 Start Menu: Customizable and User-Friendly

Windows 11 continues its evolution by revisiting one of its most fundamental elements—the Start menu. Long criticized for being cluttered with unwanted recommendations and a disjointed layout, the latest beta builds now offer a fresh “back to basics” approach that many users have been waiting for. Early testers, including the well-known Windows Insider phantomofearth, have reported that the redesigned Start menu introduces a more cohesive, customizable, and streamlined experience that promises to simplify your digital life on Windows.

A Unified, Scrollable Interface​

One of the headline changes is the move away from separate sections for pinned apps and recommendations. Instead, the new interface integrates everything into one long, vertically scrollable page. The redesigned Start menu now features a pinned area at the top—initially limited to two rows of eight apps for a clean look—but with an option to expand this section if you need quicker access to more of your favorite programs. Beneath this section, a comprehensive list of installed applications is presented without the clunky “All Apps” button that characterized earlier builds.
Key improvements include:

• A single scrollable layout that minimizes the need for extra clicks and hidden menus.
• An expandable pinned-out area for favorites, ensuring that you get a neat first impression while still retaining easy access.
• A consolidated list of all apps that now offers multiple view options, allowing you to choose between a vertical list, a grid, or even a category-based layout.

This redesign addresses longstanding usability concerns by reducing the cognitive load and streamlining navigation across the operating system.

Taking Control: Disabling Intrusive Recommendations​

For many users, one of the most aggravating aspects of the previous Start menu design was the “Recommended” section. Designed to surface recent files, installed apps, or even Microsoft Store suggestions, this area often ended up crowding the interface with content you didn’t ask for. In the new design, you finally have the option to disable these recommendations entirely, allowing for a much cleaner desktop focused on what really matters—your preferred applications.
What this means for users:

• A clear toggle in Settings now lets you remove the Recommended section.
• When disabled, the clutter is removed not only from the Start menu but also affects related areas like the Recent files in File Explorer.
• The interface becomes more personalized, allowing you to tailor the experience entirely to your working style.

This user-centric change is a direct response to widespread feedback from power users and casual users alike, who have long wanted a simpler and more distraction-free interface.

Enhanced Customization Options​

Modern workflows demand flexibility, and the new Start menu is built with that in mind. Beyond the major layout overhauls, there are several customization features designed to let you shape the menu to suit your needs:

• Multiple App Views: Choose how to display all your installed applications—whether you prefer them sorted alphabetically, arranged in a grid, or grouped by categories (which is notably the most space-efficient option).
• Expandable Pinned Section: While it defaults to showing only two rows of your favorite apps for a tidy look, you can expand this area. This design decision keeps the initial view crisp without compromising on fast access for users who require more icons up front.
• Tailored Settings Controls: New options in the Settings panel let you decide exactly what appears on your Start menu. Whether it’s toggling off recommendations or choosing an all-pin display mode, these settings give you the power to create a workspace that’s uniquely yours.

These features are part of a broader push towards personalization in Windows 11. By giving users more granular control over the interface, Microsoft is not only addressing past criticisms but also taking steps to ensure the operating system adapts to various workflows and personal preferences.

Technical Insights Behind the Redesign​

From an engineering standpoint, the revamped Start menu isn’t merely about superficial changes; it represents a deeper, adaptive approach to user interface design. The beta builds, available through the Windows Insider program, indicate that Microsoft has rethought the fundamentals of the Start menu nearly from the ground up. Here are some technical highlights:

• A Wider Layout: The new design features a broader interface to accommodate larger icons and menu items, making everything easier to read and interact with.
• Integration and Fluidity: The interface software now supports smooth animations and transitions that make the experience more modern and responsive. Instead of toggling between separate pieces of information, everything flows together on a single page.
• Customizable Expansion: Although the pinned apps area is initially capped at two rows to maintain a minimalist aesthetic, developers have ensured users can manually expand this area if they require more surface space.

Testers have already praised the stability and responsiveness of the experimental design. However, as with all beta features, some early adopters have cautioned against using the experimental build on a primary device due to potential glitches. This iterative approach helps Microsoft gather the necessary user feedback before rolling out a final, refined update.

Learning from the Past: Windows 10 vs. Windows 11​

Historically, the Start menu has been a central element not only in Windows 95 but throughout the evolution of Windows over the decades. Windows 10’s Start menu was celebrated for its flexibility and for balancing the traditional layout with modern live tiles. In contrast, the initial version of Windows 11 eschewed much of that customization in favor of a more modern—but arguably frozen—experience.
Key differences include:

• Windows 10 allowed extensive personalization with rearrangeable live tiles and groups.
• Windows 11’s early design, while visually appealing, received criticism for its rigidity and the intrusive recommendations.
• The latest update appears to draw inspiration from the strengths of Windows 10’s customization while retaining the cleaner overall aesthetic of Windows 11.

By merging tried-and-true elements from previous versions with new innovations, Microsoft is attempting to bridge the gap between modern minimalism and user-centric flexibility.

Broader Implications and Future Trends​

The overhaul of the Start menu signals more than just a cosmetic upgrade—it reflects a broader trend toward user-centric design across operating systems. As personal workflows become increasingly diverse, operating systems must offer a level of adaptability and simplicity that helps users stay productive without distraction.
Consider these points:

• The move towards customization echoes trends seen in mobile operating systems, where users can seamlessly reorder and group apps according to their behavior.
• The ability to disable recommendations addresses concerns over privacy and distraction, indicating that future updates may lean even further into user choice.
• This redesign might set the stage for more substantial integrations of organizational tools, potentially paving the way for features that dynamically adjust the interface based on usage patterns.

Such changes come not only as a resolution to past user grievances but also as a proactive step toward future-proofing the Windows experience in an age where flexibility and personalization are paramount.

Tips for Early Adopters and Windows Enthusiasts​

For those eager to experience the revamped Start menu firsthand, here’s how you can dive in:

• Enroll in the Windows Insider Program if you haven’t already.
• Update to one of the latest beta builds that include the new Start menu design.
• Use configuration tools like ViVeTool to enable experimental features if they aren’t automatically activated.
• Experiment with the new settings. Try toggling off the Recommended section or expanding the pinned apps area to see what best suits your workflow.
• Provide feedback through the Insider channels—your input will directly shape the final design before the update reaches the general public.

This hands-on approach not only allows you to contribute to the improvement of Windows 11 but also gives you a glimpse into the future of one of the operating system’s most critical user interfaces.

Final Thoughts​

The overhaul of the Windows 11 Start menu is emblematic of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to listen to its community and evolve with user needs. By simplifying the interface, merging previously segregated elements, and offering granular customization options, the new design strives to reclaim simplicity without sacrificing modern aesthetics. Whether you’re a fan of the robust flexibility once seen in Windows 10 or you appreciate the polished minimalism of Windows 11, these changes promise to deliver the best of both worlds.
As more insiders test the updated design, its refinement will continue based on real-world feedback. For Windows enthusiasts eager to witness this blend of legacy and innovation, the revamped Start menu is more than just a new look—it’s a reinvention designed to enhance productivity and personalization for millions of users worldwide.
Stay tuned as we continue to track these developments in future updates, and be sure to share your experiences and thoughts here on WindowsForum.com. Your feedback is essential as Microsoft shapes the future of Windows 11’s user experience.
Happy customizing and enjoy the new start to your day with Windows 11!

---

Source: Ars Technica Back to basics: Microsoft tests overhauled Start menu in Windows 11 beta builds