Microsoft Announces Its New Start Menu for Windows 11 and Provides a Look at the Various Concepts That Didn’t Make It to the Final Version
In April, we got a first look at the redesigned Start menu of Windows 11. Now Microsoft is revealing the entire process of redesigning the Start menu in a new blog post. In it, the company describes the different concepts that didn’t make the cut, and which new features have passed the test.
The new Start menu is gradually getting ready for rollout. Registered testers can first try it out through the Dev Channel test channel before it’s rolled out to the general public later this year.
New design
Microsoft starts from the idea that everything you need should be accessible via the start menu. This adjustment is based on users’ need to see all their (favorite) apps at a glance in the start menu, without having to click on ‘All apps’ first. Moreover, users will be able to choose how the apps are displayed.
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Additionally, Microsoft wants to bridge the gap with your phone by adding a connection via the Phone Link app for Android and iOS to the start menu. This allows you to easily open a WhatsApp photo or task from your Android phone on your desktop, and stay up to date with the latest messages.
Testing phase
This new design for the start menu in Windows 11 was preceded by many other concepts. Microsoft created various designs and subjected them to different tests. For example, Microsoft experimented with a ‘For you’ section and app categories. A rounder design was also tested, as well as a prototype with a vertical space.
300 Windows 11 fans participated in unmoderated surveys, and dozens of others took part in live co-creation conversations. “We looked at eye-tracking heat maps that swirled, counted scroll wheels, and listened to ‘oh!’s of delight to know where we hit the mark,” Microsoft writes.
Microsoft will now start testing the new Start menu with Windows Insiders.
This article originally appeared on May 14 and was updated with the most recent information.