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Is the New Windows 11 Start Menu a Terrible Mistake or a Perfect Fix?
Microsoft is changing the Windows 11 Start menu. A new optional update, KB5067036, brings the first big redesign since Windows 11 launched. The goal is to give you more control and make the Start menu easier to use. Many of these changes are based on what users have asked for. This update will later become a standard part of Windows for everyone.
Key Changes You Will See
The new Start menu feels familiar but works much better. It combines the best ideas from past versions of Windows with new, useful features.
One Place for All Apps
You no longer need two clicks to see all your programs. The Start menu now has one single view. It shows your pinned apps first, then recommendations, and then a full list of all your apps that you can scroll through. This makes finding programs much quicker.
New Ways to Group Apps
Your apps are now sorted into groups automatically, like “Productivity” or “Games.” This is called Category view. It keeps your app list tidy. If you prefer the old way, you can still see your apps in an alphabetical list or a simple grid.
Hide the Recommended Section
You can now completely remove the “Recommended” section from your Start menu. If you turn off all its options in Settings, it will disappear. This gives you a cleaner look and more space for your apps.
A Smarter, Cleaner Layout
The Start menu now changes its size to fit your screen. On a large monitor, it will expand to show more of your pinned apps, making better use of the space.
Better Connection to Your Phone
The Phone Link feature is now integrated more smoothly. A small phone icon lets you quickly see notifications or messages from your connected device. You can also hide this panel with one click for a simpler menu.
How to Get the New Start Menu
You can get this update now if you have Windows 11 version 24H2 or 25H2.
- Go to Settings, then Windows Update.
- Turn on the option to “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.”
- Click “Check for updates.”
- If it is available for you, install the optional preview update listed.
Keep in mind that once you install this update, you cannot go back to the old Start menu design.
Is This Update a Good Thing?
Yes, this update is a positive step. The original Windows 11 Start menu was not popular because it felt less functional. Microsoft listened to that feedback. The new Start menu gives you the power to make it work exactly how you want.
You can create a very simple, minimal menu. Or you can fill it with pinned apps, folders, and information from your phone. The customization options are excellent, and the design looks clean no matter what you choose. For the first time in Windows 11, you have full control over how your Start menu looks and works.