Is Microsoft finally addressing user frustrations with the Windows 11 Start Menu? The latest Insider Preview build offers a glimpse into a redesigned interface, promising a more streamlined and customizable experience. Build 26200.5641 (KB5060824), now available to the Dev Channel, introduces a scrollable Start Menu, new viewing options, and adaptive sizing for various screen dimensions. But what does this mean for the average user, and are these changes substantial enough to quell existing concerns?
For many, the Windows 11 Start Menu has been a point of contention since the operating system’s launch. The static, tile-based approach felt limiting compared to the more flexible layouts of previous Windows versions. Microsoft appears to be listening, as evidenced by the significant changes in this preview build. The key updates include:
- Scrollable Interface: Apps are no longer confined to a single, fixed window. Users can now scroll through a complete list of applications, potentially eliminating the need for excessive folder organization or search queries.
- New View Options: The Start Menu introduces “Category” and “Grid” views. Category view intelligently groups apps based on type (e.g., “Productivity,” “Games”), while Grid view provides an alphabetical listing across multiple columns, maximizing screen real estate.
- Adaptive Sizing: The Start Menu now dynamically adjusts its layout based on screen size. Larger displays will showcase more pinned apps and recommendations, while smaller screens will optimize for readability and usability.
According to Microsoft’s blog post outlining the changes, the Category view automatically creates groups when three or more apps share a common category; otherwise, apps land in an “Other” category. Crucially, the system remembers a user’s preferred view, applying it each time the Start Menu is opened. This might significantly enhance the intuitiveness of the experience. “We are continuing to refine the Windows 11 experience based on feedback,” a Microsoft spokesperson said.
The adaptive sizing promises a more consistent experience across different devices. Larger screens can now display up to eight columns of pinned apps, six recommendations, and four category columns, while smaller screens are configured for six columns of pinned apps, four recommendations, and three category columns. For those with fewer pinned items, the pinned section will dynamically shrink to prioritize other content. Users can also manually set an expanded view via Settings.
But beyond the technical specifications, how do these changes translate into real-world usability? Early adopters on the Dev Channel are offering mixed reactions. Some praise the increased flexibility and customization, while others remain skeptical, pointing to potential issues with discoverability and the persistent presence of “recommended” content , often seen as unwanted advertisements.
One area where Microsoft aims to improve the overall user experience involves cross-device integration, although a user experience issue occured and many wondered why, but eventually was resolved. The company is expanding or collapsing mobile device content using a button next to the Search box. This feature, initially available for Android and iOS devices in most markets, is expected to extend to the European Economic Area later this year. This represents an atempt to bridge the gap between mobile and desktop workflows.
However, some question the decision to roll out these changes exclusively to the Dev Channel first. “Why not beta testers who can offer real-world feedback before unleashing this on the developers?”, asked one user on X.com. “Seems like a backwards approach.”
The impact of these changes extends beyond individual users. For businesses, a more customizable and efficient Start Menu could translate into improved productivity and reduced training costs. IT departments, however, will need to carefully evaluate the new features and ensure compatibility with existing software and policies. It’s important to remember that Microsoft is still refining the user interface, so there will be a learning curve.
The new Start Menu is not without its critics, of course.
“It’s a step in the right direction, but it doesn’t go far enough,” says Sarah Miller, a tech blogger. “I still want more control over the layout and the ability to completely remove the recommended section.”
Other users have expressed concern about the potential for increased clutter and the need to re-learn familiar workflows.
“I’m worried that the scrollable list will make it harder to find what I’m looking for,” says John Davis, a long-time Windows user. “I preferred the simplicity of the old Start Menu.”
Many are waiting and watching as well; only time will tell if these fears will be put to rest or not.
One local software developer, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their experience: “I spent hours yesterday wrestling with the new Start Menu,” they admitted. “The adaptive sizing kept changing on me, and the category view seemed to group things randomly. I eventually switched back to the grid view, which is at least predictable. This is a story we need to tell,” he emphasized. “These aren’t just cosmetic changes; they affect how people use their computers every day.”
Microsoft’s decision to overhaul the Windows 11 Start Menu represents a significant shift in its approach to user interface design. By introducing scrolling, new viewing options, and adaptive sizing, the company is attempting to address long-standing criticisms and provide a more flexible and personalized experience. However, the success of these changes will ultimately depend on user adoption and feedback. Microsoft needs to actively listen to the concerns of its users and continue to iterate on the Start Menu based on real-world usage. The long-term impcat on the market can’t be denied if the company fails to do this. Wether or not the company succeeds is the great unkown.