Windows 11 has rolled out a significant update to its Start Menu, addressing user critiques and enhancing overall functionality. The redesign introduces a wider layout, displaying eight apps per row instead of the previous six. This update retains the search bar at the top and provides an option to expand or collapse pinned items into a larger grid, allowing for more efficient navigation.
Enhanced App Navigation
The new Start Menu allows users to choose from an alphabetical list, alphabetical grid, or folder-based category sorting for applications. Below the Pinned and Recommended sections, users can access the full list of installed apps in a single pane. This eliminates the need for multiple scrolling pages, streamlining ease of access.
Unresolved Issues and Limitations
Despite improvements in layout and accessibility, certain limitations persist. The Start Menu search function continues to include web results and Microsoft Store apps unless settings are adjusted, which some users may find unhelpful. Additionally, disabling the Recommended section can remove recent file visibility in File Explorer and Jump Lists. Further, the redesign does not allow resizing of the Start Menu or categorization of pinned items, a popular feature in Windows 10.
- The Start Menu now shows eight apps per row as of 2026-01-25.
- Pinned items can expand or collapse, improving viewability.
- The Recommended section is less intrusive but remains active by default.
- Full app lists are accessible in a single pane.
- Some features from Windows 10, like menu resizing, are still missing.
In summary, while this update is a move in the right direction for Windows 11, some users might still find it lacking in certain areas compared to previous iterations of the OS. The changes reflect a focus on functionality and user preference, indicating Microsoft's ongoing responsiveness to feedback.
