Redesigning the Start Menu: A Step Towards More Control and Customization in Windows 11

As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Windows 11, it’s exciting to see Microsoft working on fundamental elements of the operating system’s design. The latest development is a redesigned Start menu that promises to give users more control over what apps they see. In this post, we’ll dive into the key points and trends of this redesign, exploring what it means for users and what’s next for Windows 11.

A New Era for the Start Menu

The redesigned Start menu is a significant departure from its predecessors. Gone are the days of a cluttered, vertically scrolling list of apps. Instead, the new menu features a larger, more organized layout that displays up to two rows of eight pinned apps. This is a welcome change, as it allows users to quickly access their most frequently used apps without having to dig through a long list.

But the real game-changer is the ability to turn off the “Recommended” section entirely. For those who are tired of Windows’ constant reminders and recommendations, this is a major win. The Recommended area has always been a bit of a mixed bag, sometimes showing useful suggestions and other times pushing apps from the Microsoft Store. With this redesign, users can opt for a full list of all apps installed on their PC, giving them complete control over what they see.

Taskbar Icon Scaling: A Welcome Addition

In addition to the Start menu redesign, Microsoft has also been testing “taskbar icon scaling” in a recent beta build. This feature allows users to shrink their taskbar icons to a smaller size, making more room for additional apps and icons. This is a great addition, especially for users who have a lot of apps pinned or opened at the same time.

What’s Next for Windows 11?

While the redesigned Start menu and taskbar icon scaling are exciting developments, it’s worth noting that these features are still in the testing phase. It’s unclear when or if they will be officially announced in a future Windows 11 preview build. However, given the track record of hidden Windows 11 changes making their way to the public, it’s likely that we’ll see these features rolled out to the masses in the near future.

Actionable Insights and Takeaways

• The redesigned Start menu offers more control and customization options for users, allowing them to turn off the Recommended section and access a full list of installed apps.
• Taskbar icon scaling is a welcome addition, providing more space for additional apps and icons.
• Microsoft continues to work on fundamental elements of the Windows 11 design, indicating a commitment to improving the user experience.

Conclusion

The redesigned Start menu and taskbar icon scaling are significant developments in the ongoing evolution of Windows 11. As Microsoft continues to refine its operating system, it’s clear that the company is committed to giving users more control and customization options. Whether you’re a power user or just looking for a more streamlined experience, these changes are sure to be welcome additions to the Windows 11 ecosystem.