Microsoft has officially confirmed changes to the Windows 11 Start menu regarding the All apps section. The new version, which will appear in Windows 11 23H2 and 24H2, will feature two options for displaying installed programs – as an alphabetical grid or as categories.
Image source: windowslatest.com
While the changes don’t change the core concept of the Start menu, they may appeal to those who prefer a structured view of their apps. The new layout is reminiscent of both the grouping of Live Tile widgets in older versions of Windows and the way iOS organizes apps.
Image source: windowslatest.com
The redesign of the All Apps section was first revealed in 2024 by Windows Latest. Microsoft recently confirmed the changes in an official blog post and also announced that users who want to test the update early can join the Beta Channel program.
The new interface will allow users to display applications in a grid format with larger icons, as well as group them into categories. For example, Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Reader will be placed under the letter “A” when the alphabetical mode is selected.
Image source: windowslatest.com
Microsoft doesn’t yet allow users to create their own categories, however. Apparently, grouping is done automatically using a built-in system based on machine learning algorithms.
Image source: windowslatest.com
The updated Start menu interface is currently being tested in the Beta Channel, and Microsoft has not disclosed the exact timing of its mass distribution. However, according to Windows Latest, the update may become available within the next two months.
Microsoft is also preparing other changes to the Start menu that are planned for 2025. For example, a new sidebar was previously tested, with which you can view notifications, messages, and running applications from an Android smartphone. There will also be a function for transferring files from a computer to a phone via integration with Phone Link.