A Fresh Take on the Windows Start Menu!

This month, Microsoft is shaking up the Windows 11 experience with a fresh redesign of the Start menu! Get ready for a spacious new layout that finally allows you to disable that pesky recommended feed of apps and files.

Exclusive Sneak Peek at Concept Designs!

But wait—this isn’t the only vision they had in mind. Microsoft just unveiled a treasure trove of concept images showing five radically different designs that could have transformed the Start menu as we know it. One idea features an adorably rounded menu packed with widget-like functionality, complete with a 'For You' section highlighting Teams meetings, trending YouTube videos, and recent files.

Another concept keeps the 'For You' section off to the side, focusing instead on categories of apps. And then there’s the prototype that takes it to another level: imagine a landing page for your Start menu! This all-in-one hub boasts shortcuts to apps, files, and even sections dedicated to accessing your Android phone and personalized creation tools.

Innovative Design Process!

The design team went all out in brainstorming new layouts, using everything from whiteboards to floor-to-ceiling paper prototypes. They shared, "Nothing was too scrappy; we sketched out a plethora of layouts, going wild to discover new potential before refining them." This creative freedom has yielded some fascinating results!

User-Centric Testing with Real Fans!

In their quest for the perfect design, Microsoft engaged with over 300 Windows 11 fans to test these concepts. Their methods included eye-tracking heat maps and user feedback, capturing reactions to pinpoint exactly what resonates.

What’s Next for the Start Menu?

The revamped Start menu emphasizes clarity, personalization, and speed, all while honoring three decades of Windows tradition. The finalized version promises to be bigger and more customizable than ever before, and the ability to remove the recommended feed is sure to earn applause from users.

Moreover, the Start menu will include a phone companion panel for quick access to calls, messages, and files from your mobile device.

Coming Soon for Windows Insiders!

Windows Insiders will get their hands on this new Start menu in the upcoming month, with a broader release expected for all Windows 11 users soon after. Stay tuned for an exciting upgrade!