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Windows 11 Start Menu facelift and update

Microsoft has started the process of making changes to the Windows 11 Start menu with the January update. This update will reach users gradually, which means not everyone will get the new design immediately. Users who want to get it immediately can activate the “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” option in Windows Update.

Fast and personalized experience with new design

After almost a year of testing various concepts, Microsoft has finalized this new design. The company aims to make the Start menu faster and intuitive, as well as provide users with an recognizable experience. The new layout now starts with a larger search bar, followed by pinned apps, then the Recommended section and finally the full apps list.

Changes in Search and Recommended sections

Search has been given a priority, allowing users to quickly access files, apps or images. Apart from this, an option to turn it off completely has also been added to the Recommended section, which was not available earlier. However, turning it off causes recently opened files and the taskbar jump list to disappear, which may cause some inconvenience.

Apps list and new grid system

In the new design, access to the apps list is now possible directly from the Start menu, eliminating the need for additional clicks. The new grid layout displays apps in categories, reducing the need for scrolling and making apps easier to find. This approach is similar to the home screen of a smartphone, providing a familiar experience to users.

Phone Link Panel and Taskbar

Phone Link will now appear as a slide-in panel instead of taking up a permanent position, making it take up less space. However, Microsoft is still standing by the demand to change the taskbar, and the company says that it will disrupt the animations and flow of the interface. Users who want the old Start menu currently have to rely on third-party tools.