Is Windows 11’s New Start Menu an Improvement Over the Old Version?

Exciting Updates in Windows 11’s Start Menu (October 2023)

This month, Microsoft introduced an optional update (KB5067036) for Windows 11 (versions 25H2 and 24H2), featuring a refreshed Start menu that is currently being rolled out to users. This new Start menu is marked as a Preview, meaning all changes will be part of the upcoming Patch Tuesday in November 2025.

A Brief Look Back at the Start Menu’s Evolution

The genesis of the Start menu dates back to the release of Windows 95, which launched in 1995, making it 30 years old this year. It saw a significant redesign with Windows XP almost 25 years ago, but users have long been clamoring for modern refinements.

Windows 95 Start menu vs Windows XP Start menu — Credit: The Verge

Over the years, the Start menu has evolved significantly; however, some earlier attempts at innovation, such as the full-screen Start screen with Live Tiles introduced in Windows 8, faced mixed user feedback. While it was ahead of its time, the backlash led Microsoft to revert back to the more traditional Start menu in Windows 10, although the original layout has since reached its end of life.

Windows 11’s Start Menu: A Complete Redesign

The Start menu in Windows 11 was already a departure from Windows 10, but it lacked functional improvements, causing some frustration among users who preferred the swift access to all applications via a single click.

New Features in the Windows 11 Start Menu Update

With the latest updates to the Start menu, users can finally enjoy a more streamlined experience. Microsoft has listened to feedback and incorporated a series of enhancements, aimed at improving user customization and navigation.

Scrollable Apps Section

One significant change addresses the previous complaint regarding the two-click requirement to view all installed applications. In contrast, the forthcoming update restores the more intuitive single-click access reminiscent of Windows 10’s app list layout.

The newly revamped Windows 11 Start menu now features a single-pane layout that simplifies navigation. This design includes pinned apps at the top, personalized recommendations, and a scrollable section for all applications.

Category and Grid Views for Apps

The latest update also introduces Category and Grid views for managing apps. Previously, the All apps section existed on a different pane, but now it appears alongside pinned apps within the primary Start menu.

All applications are automatically grouped into relevant categories, enhancing organization. Examples of categories include Utility, Productivity, Creativity, and more, based on the apps installed on your device.

Categories view in Windows 11 new Start menu

Enhanced Customization Options

The updated Start menu allows users to customize or completely disable recommendations within the Start interface. This is a significant improvement, as users can now choose exactly what appears in this section, helping to declutter and streamline their experience.

Responsive Design Adaptation

Moreover, the Start menu now dynamically adjusts itself according to the screen size and resolution. This way, users on larger screens can benefit from an expanded layout that better utilizes available space.

Windows 11 new Start menu on larger screen vs smaller screen

Improved Phone Link Integration

Lastly, the integration with Phone Link has seen noteworthy improvements. Users can now receive missed calls, recent notifications, and text messages directly from the Start menu. The option to hide this feature remains available for those who prefer a minimalistic layout.

How to Access the New Start Menu

To get the latest version of the Start menu, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. Look for the prompt regarding “Preview Update (KB5067036) (26200.7019)”.This is gradually being rolled out to enhance the Start menu experience for users of the 24H2 and 25H2 builds.

To ensure early access, enable “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” prior to checking for updates. Once the update is applied, reverting to the previous Start layout will not be an option.

Assessing the Improvements in the Start Menu

The primary role of the Start menu is to facilitate user navigation and access within the Windows operating system. User opinions on different versions of the Start menu vary widely, with some users favoring the simplicity of Windows 7 and others praising the functionality of Windows 10.

Despite initial criticisms regarding Windows 11’s Start menu, particularly in comparison to Windows 8, the recent updates demonstrate a commitment to form and functionality. Microsoft’s efforts have culminated in a Start menu that not only looks aesthetically pleasing but is also highly customizable.

macOS Tahoe spotlight looks eerily similar to Windows 11 Start screen — Credit: Apple

Users can now create their preferred environments, whether that be a minimalistic Start menu with only essential features or a robust setup featuring a variety of pinned apps, recommendations, and folder shortcuts. This high degree of customization marks a significant advancement in Windows 11 and showcases Microsoft’s evolving design philosophy.

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