Microsoft recently enhanced the Windows 11 Start Menu, allowing users to customize it into an Android-style app drawer. This update aims to improve app discovery and streamline user interfaces.

Steps for Enhanced Customization

  • Turn off mobile features: Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Start and toggle "Show mobile device in Start" off.
  • Disable recommendations: In Settings, turn off "Show recently added apps," "Show recommended files," and "Show most used apps" to eliminate clutter.
  • Use Grid View: Open the Start Menu, select View, and choose Grid to arrange apps alphabetically, emulating an Android drawer.
  • Unpin apps: Remove all pinned apps by right-clicking on them and selecting "Unpin from Start" to utilize the full grid space.

Implementation and Availability

This Start Menu update is gradually being rolled out and may not be available on every Windows 11 system yet. Users can follow the outlined steps to achieve a cleaner, more organized interface.

By leveraging these customization features, Windows 11 users can enjoy a streamlined experience similar to Android, enhancing overall usability.

Classic Windows Start Menu

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