Windows 11 Now Has a New Start Menu Design: Here’s Everything You Should Know
Microsoft is once again bringing a fresh update to your desktop! Yes, Windows 11 now has a new Start Menu design, and it’s more than just a cosmetic touch. This isn’t just about making things look prettier — it’s about helping users interact with their PC in a more personal, smooth, and intuitive way.
Let’s explore what the new Windows 11 Start Menu updates are all about, how they improve your everyday experience, and why Microsoft chose to refresh one of the most iconic parts of Windows.
Microsoft Unveils Scrollable and Customisable Start Menu for Windows 11 Users
At first glance, the updated Start menu in Windows 11 may look quite familiar. But spend just a few minutes with it and you’ll start to see the difference. Microsoft has introduced a scrollable layout that allows users to see more pinned apps and recommendations without cluttering the screen.
This might sound small, but it’s a big deal for anyone who regularly uses dozens of apps or prefers organizing their workspace the old-school way — neat and tidy.
What’s New in the Start Menu?
- Scrollable pinned apps section
- Custom folders within the Start menu
- Improved recommendations based on usage
- More personalization options, like adjusting the number of rows
- Recent activity tracking for better app suggestions
Microsoft Rolls Out Windows 11 Start Menu Updates with Better Navigation
Let’s be honest — the Start menu has always been the heart of Windows. It’s where everything begins. And now, Microsoft is making that heart beat a little more smoothly.
One of the most practical features in this update is the scrollable pinned apps grid. Instead of cramming all your favourite apps into a small static space, you can now scroll through them. This gives a cleaner look and makes the experience smoother, especially on smaller displays like laptops or tablets.
You can also group apps into folders (finally!) — so if you want a folder for work apps, entertainment, or tools, it’s just a few clicks away.
Windows 11’s Updated Start Menu: Designed With Users in Mind
This change is not just a technical improvement — it’s a user-friendly one. Microsoft has clearly been listening to feedback from real users.
In earlier builds, people often complained that the Start menu in Windows 11 felt too “locked” or “rigid.” With this update, Microsoft is fixing that by giving us more freedom to personalise.
You can now:
- Choose how many rows of pinned apps you want
- Adjust which type of apps or content shows in the Recommended section
- Disable certain suggestions completely if you prefer a cleaner look
It’s a small shift, but one that makes users feel more in control of their system — a feeling that was missing in previous versions.
A Little Insight: Why Microsoft Is Revamping the Start Menu Now
Here’s something most articles won’t tell you — this update isn’t just about user experience, it’s also about future-proofing Windows 11.
With AI-powered features like Windows Copilot and cloud integration becoming more central to the OS, Microsoft needs a Start menu that can evolve. A flexible, scrollable, and modular menu makes it easier to integrate more smart features without breaking the visual consistency.
Also, as more users start using touchscreen devices, laptops that fold into tablets, and even dual-screen setups, the Start menu has to adapt. This redesign makes it scalable and responsive across devices.
How to Use the New Customisable Start Menu in Windows 11
If you’re already on the latest Windows 11 update (check in Windows Update settings), the new Start menu should be available to you.
Here’s a simple guide on how to make the most of it:
To Scroll Through Pinned Apps:
Just use your mouse wheel or two-finger swipe on a trackpad to scroll up and down through the pinned apps list.
To Create a Folder:
- Drag one pinned app icon onto another
- A folder will automatically be created
- Click to rename it based on your preference
To Customise the Layout:
- Right-click on Start Menu > Personalization > Start
- Choose layout style (More Pins / More Recommendations / Default)
- Turn off suggestions if you want a cleaner look
This new customisation makes the desktop feel more like your personal dashboard, not just a list of apps.
Windows 11 Start Menu Updates: What’s Still Missing?
While the new Start menu design for Windows 11 is a big improvement, a few things still remain on users’ wishlists:
- Still no live tiles (which some users liked from Windows 10)
- No drag-and-drop files into app folders (yet)
- Limited font and icon styling for deeper customization
Microsoft might roll these out later depending on feedback, but as of now, these features are not part of the update.
Which Users Will Get the New Windows 11 Start Menu Design?
The updated Windows 11 Start Menu is being rolled out to all supported Windows 11 devices. But there are a few details to keep in mind:
Available for:
- Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2 builds
- All editions: Home, Pro, Enterprise
- PCs with latest feature updates installed
Not available for:
- Devices still running Windows 10
- Older Windows 11 versions not updated to latest patches
If you’re unsure whether your PC supports it, just go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates.
Rollout Timeline for Windows 11 Start Menu Updates
Microsoft has started rolling out this feature gradually as part of its May–June 2025 cumulative updates. So if you haven’t received it yet, don’t worry — it’s coming soon.
- Developer and Insider Preview: Received in April 2025
- Public rollout begins: Mid-May 2025
- Expected to reach most devices: By end of June 2025
Is the New Start Menu Worth the Hype?
Honestly, yes. While it may not be a complete overhaul, the revamped Start Menu in Windows 11 feels thoughtful and practical. It’s not just about looking modern — it’s about giving users choice and control.
If you use your PC heavily every day, these small changes can really improve your workflow and experience.
