Microsoft Updates Windows 10 Start Menu and Settings to Boost Subscriptions

24 Aug 2024

The latest preview build of Windows 10 has introduced a series of subtle yet intriguing modifications to both the Start menu and the Settings app. These changes reflect Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to enhance user engagement with its ecosystem of services.

Start Menu Enhancements

Among the updates, the positioning of the user tile within the Start menu has been adjusted, now prominently placed at the top of the hamburger menu. This new layout allows users to quickly access an overview of their Microsoft Account and subscription status. If users are not subscribed to Microsoft 365, the menu will provide a gentle nudge, informing them of their subscription status—a feature that mirrors recent enhancements in Windows 11.

Settings App Visual Refresh

Additionally, the Settings app is undergoing a visual refresh, with plans to replace the traditional monochrome icons with more vibrant alternatives. This change aims to make the interface more inviting and encourage users to engage with essential functions, such as updating Windows or signing in with a Microsoft Account.

Backporting Features from Windows 11

Since reaffirming its commitment to Windows 10 after the launch of Windows 11, Microsoft has been steadily backporting features to enrich the user experience. Notable additions since November include Windows Copilot and MSN widgets on the lock screen, designed to keep users connected and informed.

Strategic Moves and Future Implications

The recent updates, first highlighted by the user @phantomofearth on X, suggest that Microsoft is not merely focusing on aesthetic improvements but is also strategically steering users towards its suite of services. The changes appear to be a calculated move to promote subscriptions to Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Xbox Game Pass, and Copilot Pro, rather than solely enhancing user satisfaction.

As Microsoft continues to innovate within Windows 10, it raises questions about the future of the platform, particularly with its end of support looming just over a year away. Nevertheless, these updates signal a clear intent to keep users engaged and connected to Microsoft’s broader ecosystem, even as the company prepares for the next chapter in its operating system journey.

How to add sticky notes to startup windows 10?

To add Sticky Notes to startup in Windows 10, follow these steps: 1. Press Win + R, type 'shell:startup', and press Enter to open the Startup folder. 2. Open another File Explorer window and navigate to 'C:\Windows\System32'. 3. Find the Sticky Notes executable (StickNotes.exe or StikyNot.exe). 4. Right-click the executable and select 'Create shortcut'. 5. Copy the shortcut to the Startup folder. Sticky Notes will now open automatically when you start Windows 10.

How to activate windows 10 ltsc 2021?

To activate Windows 10 LTSC 2021, follow these steps: 1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. 2. Enter the command 'slmgr /ipk ' to install your product key and press Enter. 3. Run 'slmgr /skms ' to set the KMS server (if using one). 4. Finally, enter 'slmgr /ato' and press Enter to activate the operating system. Ensure you have a genuine product key or a valid KMS server for this process.
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