What’s happened? Microsoft is now delivering a major overhaul of the Windows 11 Start menu via the optional October 2025 non-security preview (KB5067036) for version 24H2 and 25H2. The redesign emphasizes flexibility, control, and screen-size adaptation for modern PCs.
- The “All apps” list is now promoted to the main Start page, with new view options such as grid and category layouts.
- Users can now hide Pinned apps, Recommended files, or both, for a cleaner and more streamlined Start experience.
- The new Start menu adapts to larger screens, showing more pinned apps, and adds an upgraded Phone Link panel alongside it for recent Android/iOS activity.
- The update also brings taskbar enhancements, such as animated app thumbnails on hover and a new battery icon that shows the percentage.
Why this is important: Let’s be real, the Start menu is central to how you launch apps, find files, and navigate your PC. As such, any redesign impacts daily workflow more than we often realise. By increasing flexibility and user control, Microsoft is acknowledging that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to PC interfaces.
- Users who prefer a minimalist launcher can now hide sections they don’t use, like Recommended items or app pins.
- For larger monitors or touch-enabled devices, the adaptive layout means you’re no longer fighting cramped menus.
- With Phone Link embedded in the Start menu, Microsoft is blurring the line between your computer and your mobile device.
Why should I care? For current and future Windows 11 users, this redesign promises a smoother, more familiar Start experience. If you’ve ever missed the versatility of older Start menus, this update brings some of that spirit back without feeling dated.
- You’ll spend less time hunting for apps thanks to category or grid views and the elevated “All apps” list.
- Hiding unused content (like Recommended files) means fewer distractions and a cleaner workspace.
- Phone-to-PC actions become easier thanks to the co-location of mobile-activity panels in the Start menu
Okay, so what’s next? The new Start menu is rolling out in waves, beginning with users who’ve switched on “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.” Once eligible, it should appear under “Optional updates” in Windows Update. Microsoft says wider availability is planned for the November Patch Tuesday release. Do keep in mind, though, that this is still a preview build, meaning it’s close to final but not fully polished. As such, you may run into the occasional hiccup before it becomes standard for everyone.
