Windows 11 may get a highly requested Start menu redesign, here is how to try it

In October 2023, we released a summary of the most desired features for the revamped Start menu by Windows 11 users. After six months, it seems that Microsoft is finally prepared to fulfill these requests.

PhantomOfEarth, known for uncovering hidden features in Windows 11 preview builds, recently revealed that Windows 11 build 22635.3420 allows users to switch between list and grid view in the “All Apps”section. As with other unannounced features, this one can be accessed by using the ViVeTool app until it is officially announced by Microsoft.

Steps to activate the updated Start menu design in Windows 11 build 22635.3420

1. Download ViveTool from the GitHub repository (https://github.com/thebookisclosed/ViVe/releases) and extract the files into a folder that is easily accessible.
2. To open the folder with the ViVeTool files using the CD command, first open Command Prompt as Administrator.
3. To execute the command, enter vivetool /enable /id:48433541,48433706,48433719,48468527,48468541 and then press Enter.
4. Type vivetool /enable /id:47205210 /variant:2 and press Enter
5. Reboot your computer.

If you are considering testing out the new Start menu layout on your system using the latest Windows 11 Beta build, be aware that the implementation is still in its early stages, which is to be expected for a feature that has not yet been officially announced. As an example, the only option available when right-clicking on an application in the “All apps”list is “Start settings.”This means that you cannot pin or uninstall programs directly from the context menu. Additionally, there are currently no folders, so all applications on your computer will be displayed in one large grid in alphabetical order.

It is highly probable that Microsoft will address those bugs before releasing the new layout to Windows Insiders (assuming they plan to do so).

Do you prefer the grid or list layout? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section.