Table of Contents
- How Does Windows 11 Really Organize Start Menu Apps? Find Out the Simple Secret!
- The Real Method: A Big JSON File
- How the Categories Work
- No AI, No Server Calls
- Keeping Things Up to Date
- Local Sorting by Usage
- What This Means for You
- What’s Missing? Custom Categories
- Simple Steps: How Windows 11 Groups Apps
How Does Windows 11 Really Organize Start Menu Apps? Find Out the Simple Secret!
Windows 11’s Start menu has changed. It now shows all your apps in one scrollable page. There are new “Categories” that help you find what you need. You can’t make your own categories, but Microsoft sorts the apps for you. It looks smart, but it’s not using AI or talking to Microsoft’s servers.
The Real Method: A Big JSON File
Microsoft uses a big file called JSON. This file is about 15MB. It holds all the rules for putting apps into groups. The file is compressed to save space, but when you open it up, it’s huge. Inside, there are codes and names. Each app from the Microsoft Store has a special name. That name links to a number. The number stands for a category, like Games, Music, or Productivity.
How the Categories Work
- Each app has a “package family name.”
- The JSON file matches the app’s name to a number.
- The number means the category (like 0 for Productivity, 1 for Social, 2 for Creativity).
- When you install a new app, Windows checks the file.
- If the app matches a rule, it goes into that category.
- If you install Media Player and there are at least three music apps, Media Player goes into Music.
No AI, No Server Calls
Everything happens on your computer. Windows does not send your app list to Microsoft. It does not use AI. The Start menu uses the JSON file to decide where each app should go. This keeps your info private and makes the Start menu work fast, even if you are offline.
Keeping Things Up to Date
Microsoft updates the JSON file when needed. They do this through small updates, not big system updates. If an app changes its name or a new app comes out, the file gets updated. You don’t have to restart your computer or wait for a big update.
Local Sorting by Usage
The Start menu also pays attention to which apps you use most. It puts your most-used app first in each category. This sorting happens on your computer. Every time you open the Start menu, it checks which apps you use most and moves them to the top.
What This Means for You
- Fast access: Your most-used apps show up first.
- No waiting: Sorting and grouping happen instantly.
- Privacy: Your app list stays on your device.
- Offline: Categories work even without internet.
What’s Missing? Custom Categories
Right now, you can’t make your own categories. Only Microsoft can change the categories. Many people want to make their own groups, like “School” or “Hobbies.” This is not possible yet. If many people ask for it, Microsoft might add this in the future. It could take a long time, though.
Simple Steps: How Windows 11 Groups Apps
- You install a new app.
- Windows checks the app’s name in the JSON file.
- The app gets a category based on the number in the file.
- If you use an app more, it moves up in the list.
- Updates to categories come through small Windows updates.
This method is efficient and private. You get quick access to your favorite apps. The Start menu stays organized without needing the internet. The only downside is you can’t create your own categories yet. Many users hope this will change.
Tip: If you want more control, let Microsoft know by sending feedback. The more people ask, the more likely it is to happen.