Microsoft Unveils Innovative Start Menu Design in Windows 11, Yet It Won’t Be Released

Windows 11 is set to unveil an innovative Start menu, bringing an iOS-inspired Categories feature and allowing users to opt out of the controversial ‘Recommended’ content feed. Moreover, integrating content from Android or iPhone devices directly into the Start menu enhances accessibility. Interestingly, Microsoft went through a myriad of unconventional design options before settling on the current iteration. Let’s dive into the evolution of the Start menu and explore other concepts that shaped this redesign.

The Start menu has undergone considerable transformations since its initial introduction with Windows 95, witnessing five major redesigns. Notably, Windows XP introduced a two-column layout, while Windows 8 opted for live tiles, which saw further refinement in Windows 10 before being omitted in Windows 11.

Microsoft emphasizes that the Start menu remains the central hub of Windows 11, particularly for users who engage heavily with apps. This minimalist and centered Start menu has sparked a spectrum of opinions—some embrace it, while others yearn for the traditional interfaces of Windows 7 or the dynamic tiles of Windows 8.

Designing the Start Menu: A Chemistry of User Input and Design Innovation

The latest Start menu in Windows 11 is a commendable effort, but there’s always more room to refine the experience, right?

Rolling out soon globally, my firsthand experience with the new design over the past month has revealed improvements over previous iterations. What led to this particular UI being chosen, and what other potential designs were under exploration?

Microsoft gleaned valuable insights from users who wanted a quicker way to locate installed apps and the ability to customize their Start menu experience, allowing them to suit their workflows better. This hints at a need for personalization, such as disabling the Recommended feed if it’s deemed unnecessary.

The design team based the refined Start menu on a collaborative approach that included:

Engagement with over 300 dedicated fans who provided comprehensive feedback.
Focused co-creation sessions that helped designers better grasp user sentiments regarding various aspects of the Start menu.

Ultimately, Microsoft finalized the current design as it satisfied user demands and demonstrated versatility across various display sizes—from expansive 49-inch ultrawide screens to compact 10-inch Surface Go devices.

However, this wasn’t the sole concept under consideration. Here’s a closer look at some of the intriguing, yet discarded, Start menu designs Microsoft played with during development:

1. Concept with ‘For You’ Tab and AI Integration

This initial concept included a ‘For You’ tab displaying Teams, PowerPoint, and AI-powered reminders. While grouping apps into categories appeared logical, it shifted focus heavily towards the ‘Create’ button and Microsoft 365 services, thereby complicating the straightforward task of finding apps. Consequently, it was shelved.

2. Incorporation of Live Tiles and Widgets

This iteration attempted to blend widgets with a live tiles-like interface. While it was visually appealing, the resemblances to past designs raised concerns about usability, similar to the Spotify widget resembling live tiles from Windows 8.

3. A Complicated, Tall Start Menu

Concept three presented a tall, overly cluttered interface. The design overwhelmed users with excessive information, frustrating navigation rather than simplifying it. Thankfully, this concept was quickly dismissed.

4. A Confusing Menu Design

Much like concept three, this design lacked coherence. Its various elements seemed disconnected, leading to a confusing user experience.

5. Exploring a Full-Screen Start Menu

One interesting concept was a full-screen Start menu, which I personally found appealing. While it may not perform well on desktops, it could be a favorable option for 10-inch tablets.

A common theme across these rejected designs is the proposed inclusion of widgets and a ‘Create’ tool. It’s plausible that similar elements might be adapted or integrated into future updates of the Start menu.

What are your thoughts on these innovative Start menu designs? Which concept stands out to you as most functional or visually appealing? Share your perspectives in the comments below.

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