The New Start Menu: A Fresh Take on Organization and Functionality
As we dive into the world of technology, it’s exciting to see Microsoft pushing the boundaries of innovation with its latest update to the Windows 11 Start menu. The “All” apps page is getting a much-needed facelift, introducing two new ways to organize your apps: a Name-based Grid layout and a Category view. In this post, we’ll delve into the details of this redesign and explore what it means for users.
A Fresh Take on Organization
The new Start menu layout is designed to make it easier to find and access your apps. The Name-based Grid layout arranges apps in alphabetical order, with each app represented by a tile icon. This means you can quickly scan through your apps and find the one you need. The Category view, on the other hand, groups apps under their respective categories, making it simpler to discover new apps and find related ones.
A Clean and Spacious Design
The new design is not only functional but also visually appealing. The larger icons and clean layout make it easy to navigate and find what you’re looking for. While it may not be as flashy as the beloved Windows Start live tiles, it does share some similarities with the category-organized apps on iOS.
What’s Missing?
One notable absence is the ability to create your own custom categories. It’s possible that Microsoft is using a small language model to group apps together, but we can’t help but wonder if users would benefit from more control over their app organization.
When Can We Expect the Update?
Microsoft has confirmed that the new Start menu layout will be available on Windows 11 23H2 in the coming weeks. If you’re eager to try it out, you can join the Beta Channel to test the updated layout today. Additionally, Windows Latest understands that Windows 11 24H2 is also getting the new Start menu layout, with a potential release within two months.
What’s Next for the Start Menu?
This isn’t the only Start menu upgrade we can expect in 2025. Windows Latest previously tested a new sidebar for the Start menu, which allows you to view notifications, messages, and apps opened on your Android phone. The Start menu now also lets you send files to your Android phone, a feature that’s optional and works over the existing Phone Link integration.
Conclusion
The new Start menu layout is a welcome change, offering a fresh take on organization and functionality. While it may not be a revolutionary update, it’s a step in the right direction. With the ability to organize apps in a grid or by category, users will find it easier to navigate and discover new apps. As we look to the future, it’s exciting to see what other updates Microsoft has in store for the Start menu.
Actionable Insights
- Join the Beta Channel to test the updated Start menu layout today
- Expect the new Start menu layout to be available on Windows 11 23H2 and 24H2 within two months
- Keep an eye out for future Start menu updates, including the new sidebar and file-sharing features
Summary
The new Start menu layout is a significant update to the Windows 11 experience, offering two new ways to organize your apps: a Name-based Grid layout and a Category view. With a clean and spacious design, it’s a welcome change that makes it easier to find and access your apps. As we look to the future, it’s exciting to see what other updates Microsoft has in store for the Start menu.