Microsoft has redesigned the Windows 11 Start menu with four key goals in mind: instant access to your apps, personalization that fits your workflow, tools to boost everyday productivity, and a deep respect for the legacy users know and love.
The Idea Behind the Redesign
Great design doesn’t always begin with grand gestures—it often starts with a simple question. After a lot of user video interviews, feedback forms, and quiet conversations, one theme emerged loud and clear:
“Make it easier to find what I need. Let’s start work the way I do. And don’t lose that Windows feeling.”
That spark shaped everything that followed.
Our Four Core Design Goals
- Instant Access to Your Apps
Whether it is pinned, newly installed, or recently used, your apps should be just one click away. - Make It Yours
Start should reflect how you work. Customize what appears and how much space it takes. - Boost Everyday Productivity
Every detail was refined to help you work faster—from opening files to launching apps. Great, Right? - Respect the Legacy Users
With over 30 years of history, we updated the Windows Start menu without losing the muscle memory you’ve built.
- Make Windows 10/11 EXACTLY Look Like Windows 7 in One Click
- Windows 11 Activation Txt | Key for Free (2025)
Behind the Story: How Windows 11’s Start Menu Was Reimagined
1. Explore
After so many Sketches, mockups, and prototypes, the team explored every possible layout using tools like Figma and even paper cutouts. We explored every possibility to innovate.
2. Validate
We worked with over 300 Windows enthusiasts through usability tests, eye-tracking, and real-time feedback to refine what worked and rework what didn’t.
3. Refine
Microsoft Designers listened to what users asked for and delivered:
- Faster App Discovery
→ All your apps are now front and center with multiple easy-to-navigate viewing options. - Smarter Suggestions
→ Personalized recommendations that learn from your habits in real time. - More Customization
→ Choose between more pinned apps, more recommendations, or a balanced layout. - Mobile Content Clarity
→ A sleek phone panel that slides in only when needed—no distractions, just convenience.
What’s New in the Windows 11 Start Menu?
- Dynamic Recommendations
Files, apps, and meetings appear when you need them—whether it’s a 9am recording or your favorite app at 2pm. - Better App Searching
You will find apps quickly with new top-level access. Choose any view from a category, a clean grid, or the classic A-Z list. - Mobile Integration
Stay focused while working. Sync with your phone to grab photos, check messages, or view reminders—without interrupting your desktop flow. - Personalization Upgraded
Collapse unused sections, expand your favorites, and adjust the layout based on screen size for a truly custom setup. - Faster Start Menu
Start loads instantly, helping you jump into your tasks without delay.
Looking Ahead
Design never stands still — it’s a two-way conversation. Your feedback shaped today’s Start menu, and it will guide tomorrow’s too. Try the latest version, share what you think, and be part of what’s next.
The Start menu is still your launchpad: simple, personal, and always ready.
What do you think of the new Start menu? Let us know in the comments!
