Windows 11 Start Menu Category View Lacks Manual Controls, Apps Assigned to “Other”

Understanding the Controversial Start Menu in Windows 11

Windows 11 introduces a revamped Start menu that has drawn mixed reviews from users. While the layout aims for simplicity, it omits crucial customization options, such as the ability to manually categorize applications. According to Microsoft, user feedback is being considered, but there are no guarantees for immediate changes.

A Fresh Layout: The Structure of the Start Menu

The new Start menu features a streamlined, single-page design that eliminates the need to click through to an “All apps” section. Instead, the list of installed applications now resides beneath the Recommended section. There are three viewing options for apps: Category (the default setting), Grid, and List—the latter being reminiscent of previous Windows versions.

Some users compare the Categories view to mobile operating systems like Android or iOS, appreciating the concept but criticizing the lack of customization. Many feel that even minor modifications, such as moving apps into preferred categories, should be possible. With Microsoft’s focus shifting towards AI advancements, users are left longing for basic organizational features.

The Frustrations of App Organization

A significant number of users encounter issues with the sheer volume of applications relegated to the “Other” category. For instance, one user reported 48 apps in that category, necessitating excessive scrolling across four pages to locate specific programs. This disarray raises questions about the automatic placement of applications.

Other Categories in Windows 11 Start Menu

Feedback from users highlights the problematic categorization; popular tools like Hulu, Visual Studio, and WhatsApp often end up incorrectly placed in “Other.”One dissatisfied user lamented, “Organizing the Start Menu is a nightmare. I would trade the Win11 Start Menu for WinXP in a heartbeat.” Such sentiments indicate a longing for the more customizable interfaces of earlier Windows versions.

In response to widespread discontent, Microsoft acknowledged the concerns regarding the Start menu’s categorization and has escalated this feedback to its engineering team for potential future enhancements.

Understanding the Category Mapping System

Categories in the Windows 11 Start menu are determined by a local mapping system, specifically a 15MB JSON file. This database operates offline, assigning categories based on the application’s package family name linked to numeric category IDs (e.g., Productivity, Social, Games, etc.).

When a new application is installed, Windows checks the JSON file against its package family name to categorize the app appropriately. However, if multiple apps do not exist within a specific category, even correctly recognized apps will fall back into the “Other” category.

Moreover, the current design of the Start menu consumes considerable screen space, leaving users with limited flexibility to adjust its dimensions.

What Are Your Thoughts?

How do you feel about the new Start menu? Is it a feature you appreciate, or does it frustrate you? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.

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