Windows 11 Start Menu Organizes Apps Using 15MB JSON Structure, Not AI

Understanding the Start Menu Categories in Windows 11 25H2

The new Start menu in Windows 11 version 25H2 boasts a streamlined single-page scrollable layout, introducing a feature that organizes apps into predefined Categories. While users cannot create custom Categories, Microsoft has implemented an automated grouping system for applications. This raises questions about how these apps are organized into various categories—an inquiry that might lead one to assume the use of artificial intelligence or Microsoft’s servers. Surprisingly, the answer lies in a relatively straightforward 15MB JSON file.

Exploring the Mechanics Behind App Grouping

As I explored the functionality of the new Start menu—which is gradually being rolled out to participants in the Windows Insider Program—I discovered insights shared by Albacore on X. They revealed that Microsoft relies on this sizable JSON file to categorize applications without deploying AI or interacting with Microsoft API endpoints.

Windows 11 Start menu categories feature — Illustration of Start menu categories feature

Family of Categories Explained

The JSON file in question contains a static categorization system, effectively linking numerous Microsoft Store package family names to numerical identifiers representing various categories. Once decompressed, this file forms the backbone of your Start menu’s organization.

Microsoft has assigned specific codes to each category. For instance, ‘0’ corresponds to Productivity apps, ‘1’ is for Social apps, ‘2’ signifies Creativity, and more. When a new app is installed, the Start menu references the package family name against these codes to arrange the installed apps under their respective categories.

Start menu with categories — Visual representation of grouped apps in the Start menu

Local Updates Without Server Interaction

Much to the relief of users concerned about privacy, Microsoft updates the category database through Store and Shell updates managed via Windows Update. This means that there is no need for comprehensive system updates to accommodate changes in package names or to integrate new apps.

Importantly, Microsoft does not send requests to external servers or use AI for this categorization. Every app grouping function relies solely on the local 15MB JSON file—meaning categories operate independently of an internet connection.

Dynamic App Reordering

The Start menu is designed to optimize user experience by dynamically reordering apps within each category based on usage frequency. Each time the Start menu is opened, it analyzes which apps are opened most often and adjusts their placement accordingly.

Start menu Pinned apps — Screenshot of Start menu with pinned apps

Conclusion: The Future of Custom Categories

Personally, I find the implementation of Categories in the Start menu to be a valuable enhancement. However, the demand for user-customizable categories is likely to grow. Introducing this feature could significantly improve personalization, and while it seems feasible, I anticipate it may take months or even years for Microsoft to respond effectively to this user request.

Source & Images