Microsoft Experiments with New Start Menu Layout in Windows 11
Microsoft is continuing its efforts to refine the Windows 11 user experience, with a particular focus on revamping the Start menu. The tech giant is currently testing a new 'Category' layout for the All Apps section, aiming to make app management more intuitive and efficient for users.
Key Features of the New Category Layout
- Themed Categories: Apps are grouped into categories such as entertainment, music, and news & weather
- Icon Display: Each category showcases up to four app icons in a 2x2 grid
- Expandable Mini-Icons: Categories can display up to 16 apps by bundling them as mini-icons (feature not yet fully functional)
This new layout is being tested alongside a grid-based view, both of which are alternatives to the current alphabetical list that many users find cumbersome to navigate.
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| The new organized and user-friendly layout designed to enhance navigation in Windows 11 |
Development Status
The Category layout is still in its early stages of testing:
- Currently available in the Windows 11 Beta channel
- Not fully functional - some features like expanding mini-icons are not yet implemented
- Remains hidden by default - testers need to manually enable it
Potential Impact on User Experience
If implemented, the Category layout could significantly improve how users interact with their installed applications:
- Reduced scrolling compared to the current list view
- Easier app discovery through themed groupings
- More efficient use of screen real estate
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| The Microsoft To Do app illustrates the improved task management and productivity experience in Windows 11 |
Looking Ahead
While there's no official timeline for the release of this feature, some speculate it could be part of the next major Windows 11 update (version 24H2). However, given its current early state, this timeline may be optimistic.
Microsoft's continued experimentation with the Start menu demonstrates their commitment to evolving the Windows 11 interface. As testing progresses, we may see further refinements or even entirely new concepts emerge.
For now, Windows 11 users can look forward to potentially having a more organized and user-friendly Start menu in the future, making app management a breeze.
Update: Wednesday August 14 18:00
In addition to the Start menu revamp, Microsoft is implementing significant security and installation enhancements in Windows 11. BitLocker device encryption will become a default feature in the upcoming version 24H2 update, automatically enabling encryption on the Windows install drive and backing up the recovery key to a Microsoft or work account. This change applies to clean installations and new device setups, improving security for a wider range of users. Furthermore, Microsoft is now offering options for offline Windows 11 installation, allowing users to set up the operating system without an internet connection. This can be done using Rufus to create a custom installation drive or by using a command prompt method during setup, catering to users who prefer local accounts or lack internet access during installation.
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| Windows 11’s device encryption settings highlight the focus on security enhancements in the upcoming update |