A significant transformation is arriving for Windows 11 users this week: a completely reimagined Start menu. After a period of testing with select users, this long-anticipated update is now rolling out to everyone, delivered alongside the latest security enhancements.
The most noticeable change is the introduction of true scrollability. No longer will you be forced to navigate to a separate “All apps” page to find everything installed on your system. Now, a continuous, flowing list of applications awaits directly on the Start menu’s homepage.
But the redesign goes deeper than just scrolling. Windows 11 is now intelligently organizing your apps into logical groupings. Expect to see sections like “Productivity,” neatly containing your browsers and office suite, and an “Other” category for everything else.
This automatic categorization requires at least three similar apps to form a group, ensuring a clean and intuitive experience. While customization of these categories isn’t currently available, the system promises a more organized and efficient way to launch your favorite programs.
Users who prefer the traditional layout aren’t left behind. The option to revert to the familiar grid view, listing apps alphabetically, remains readily accessible within the settings.
The new Start menu isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It dynamically adapts to your screen size, maximizing space and usability. Larger displays will showcase more pinned apps, recommendations, and categories, while smaller screens intelligently condense the layout.
For those who prefer a clutter-free experience, recommendations can be disabled entirely. This allows for a more expansive view of your installed applications, minimizing the need to scroll.
Beyond the Start menu, this update brings subtle but impactful improvements elsewhere. The battery icon now offers an optional percentage display, providing a clearer indication of remaining power, alongside a color-coded indicator.
File Explorer also receives a refresh, replacing “Quick Access” with a “Recommended” section on the Home page, designed to surface frequently used files and folders. Accessibility features like Voice Access and Click to Do have also been refined.
The best part? No reinstallation is required. Simply ensure your Windows 11 system is configured to automatically download and install updates, and the new Start menu – along with all the other enhancements – will be seamlessly integrated into your experience.
