Microsoft has officially introduced a redesigned Start Menu for Windows 11, developed with direct input from over 300 Windows enthusiasts. The tech giant’s design team focused on enhancing the core functionality of the Start Menu providing quick and easy access to apps, files, and other content while making it more customizable and user-friendly.
The redesign follows four key principles Microsoft calls its “guiding stars”: Apps at a Glance, Accelerate the Day, Honor the Icon, and Make it Yours. These pillars shape the new Start Menu to meet user needs for speed, personalization, and familiarity.
Apps at a Glance means users can find their frequently used apps more easily. The new layout prioritizes simplicity and clarity, making important apps and files visible right away. Microsoft aims to help users quickly jump into their work or leisure activities without unnecessary scrolling or searching.
With Accelerate the Day, the Start Menu aims to streamline daily tasks. The redesign integrates features that help users move faster through their workflows whether it’s opening documents, launching apps, or accessing recent files ensuring less friction and a smoother experience.
The third principle, Honor the Icon, reflects Microsoft’s commitment to preserving users’ muscle memory and visual recognition. The icons have been carefully refined for clarity and consistency but remain familiar, so users don’t have to relearn where everything is. This balance of refresh and recognition is designed to reduce friction for longtime Windows users.
Finally, Make it Yours puts customization front and center. The new Start Menu offers more options for personalizing the look and feel, allowing users to tailor it to their preferences and work styles. From resizing the menu to pinning favorite apps and rearranging content, users get more control than ever before.
Microsoft showcased the redesigned Start Menu in a recent video, highlighting its clean new interface and enhanced user experience. The company plans to roll out these changes to Windows 11 users in upcoming updates, aiming to deliver a Start Menu that’s both powerful and personal.
