Microsoft has introduced a refined Start menu for Windows 11, eliminating the requirement to click the 'All' button to see all installed apps. The change streamlines user experience by offering multiple viewing options directly in the menu.
Three Viewing Options
The updated Start menu presents three methods to view apps: an alphabetical grid, an alphabetical list, or by category. These options enhance the menu's information density, particularly the grid view. Furthermore, users can now disable the Recommended section to display the app list more prominently below pinned shortcuts.
To disable the Recommended section, right-click on the Start menu, navigate to Settings, open Personalization, and toggle off settings for recently added apps and recommended files. This adjustment allows for a cleaner and more efficient app browsing experience.
Installation and Build Details
The new menu feature is available in Windows 11 builds 26100.7019 or 26200.7019 and newer. Users can ensure they have the correct build by checking Windows Update in Settings or using the winver command. If the new Start menu doesn't appear after a build update, the company advises using ViveTool.
For applying ViveTool, download and unzip it to the C:\vive directory, open an administrator command prompt, navigate to the directory, and execute specific enable commands. A restart should activate the changes.
This improvement in Start menu functionality is a modest yet significant step forward, simplifying user navigation and aligning with efficiency goals.
