Microsoft's Windows 11 25H2 update introduces a significantly redesigned Start Menu, boasting a unified codebase across all devices. This isn't a gradual rollout; an enablement package activates the new features, requiring only a single restart for a seamless transition. The update significantly streamlines the user experience.
Immediately noticeable are the granular customization options within the "Personalization" > "Start" settings. Users gain precise control, toggling features like "Show recently added apps," "Show recommended files in Start," and "Show websites from browser history" on or off, allowing for a truly personalized interface.
The previous Start Menu's segmented layout – "Pinned," "Recommended," and "All apps" – is a thing of the past. The 24H2 and 25H2 updates merge these sections into a single, continuous, scrollable view. While this might require more scrolling, it significantly reduces clicks and enhances clarity. The resulting interface is more spacious and efficiently utilizes screen real estate, providing a more comprehensive view at a glance.
App organization has also undergone a transformation. Beyond the traditional alphabetical list, users now have the choice of grid or category views. The category view automatically groups applications based on their function (e.g., Productivity, Communication, Games), creating intuitive clusters once at least three apps share a category. While this automated categorization is helpful, manual adjustment or custom group creation isn't currently supported.
Addressing user feedback, Microsoft has refined the "Recommended" section. Instead of the previously anticipated "For You" page, users now have the option to entirely disable recommendations. Through "Settings > Personalization > Start," they can disable "Show recently added apps," "Show recommended files in Start," "Show websites from browsing history," and "Show recommendations for tips." This refined control maximizes the user's overview and minimizes unwanted clutter.
The pinned apps area also receives an upgrade, defaulting to two icon rows but expanding with a "Show all" button when necessary. A new setting, "Show all pins by default," eliminates the extra click, providing quicker access to frequently used programs. On larger screens, the layout adapts to display up to eight applications or four app groups per row, improving visual efficiency. The "Recommended" area now shows up to six elements across two rows, expanding into a dedicated page for viewing all recent files when "Show more" is selected.
Microsoft has also simplified Start Menu settings. Previously available layout options have been consolidated into the central "Show all pins by default" control. The Start Menu's size dynamically adjusts to screen scaling, appearing wider on high-resolution monitors and maintaining a compact form factor on devices with high scaling. Initial user feedback reveals a mixed reaction, with some praising the enhanced overview and others expressing concern over the layout's increased size.
Smartphone integration via Phone Link is a new addition, enabling seamless communication between your PC and Android or iOS device. This integration allows you to manage calls, read messages, view photos, and transfer files directly. The "Send to my phone" context menu option further enhances file transfer capabilities. The "Show mobile device in Start Menu" toggle allows for permanent or on-demand visibility of the sidebar, offering user control. A small icon to the right of the search bar provides an alternative way to toggle the mobile sidebar.
Further customization options are readily available in the Start Menu settings. Besides controlling recommendations and pinned app visibility, users can toggle "Show most used apps," highlighting their most frequently used programs. The "Folders" option in the bottom-left corner provides quick access to crucial system functions like Settings and File Explorer. However, some known issues persist, such as occasional layout inconsistencies and errors in category generation, which Microsoft is actively addressing.
The rollout is phased; not all users will experience the new Start Menu immediately. Microsoft utilizes A/B testing, and some may still see the older design even after installing 25H2. Manual activation with the Enablement Package or tools like "ViveTool" (using commands like "vivetool /enable /id:49402389") is an option to bypass the phased rollout. Touch operation is still limited in some areas. Microsoft has acknowledged these ongoing issues and is working on solutions.
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Originally published at: https://www.pcworld.com/article/2914815/windows-11s-new-look-start-menu-is-a-big-upgrade-lets-dive-in.html
