The Windows 11 Start menu has undergone a important redesign, evolving from nearly a year of testing and refinement. Microsoft’s approach prioritizes a clear visual hierarchy, aiming to adapt the original essence of the Start menu to a faster-paced digital world. The interface now features a prominent search bar, followed by pinned apps, and then recommendations.
The “Recommended” section has been a point of contention, with Microsoft defending its inclusion by stating user demand for bright suggestions that learn in real-time. Though, responding to criticism, users can now hide this feed through personalization settings, though disabling it also removes recent items from File Explorer and jump lists in the taskbar.
A Windows 11 start Menu Inspired by Mobile, Taskbar Customization Remains Limited
A notable change lies in how applications are managed. Microsoft aimed to replicate the experience of navigating apps on a mobile phone. To avoid endless scrolling, a grid view organized by categories has been implemented, elevating all applications to the top level for easier revelation.
See Also: Microsoft is experimenting with a macOS-style menu bar for Windows 11 within PowerToys
An optional Phone Link panel has also been integrated, sliding in from the edge and remaining hidden when not in use. Microsoft asserts these modifications are based on feedback from beta testers. However, a frequently requested feature – the ability to move the taskbar – remains unaddressed. Microsoft maintains that allowing taskbar repositioning would disrupt the interface’s animations and flow, and this limitation will persist in the new design.
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