What to know

  • Microsoft is testing a new Start menu design for Windows 11 in the Dev Channel.
  • The update introduces visual changes and improved recommendations in the Start menu.
  • Only Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel can try the new Start menu for now.
  • User feedback will help Microsoft refine the Start menu before wider release.

Microsoft has started testing a new version of the Start menu for Windows 11. This update is currently available to users in the Dev Channel, which is part of the Windows Insider Program. If you are in the Dev Channel, you can try out the redesigned Start menu before it becomes available to everyone.

The new Start menu features several visual changes. Microsoft has updated the look to make it more modern and easier to use. One of the main improvements is in the recommendations section. The Start menu now shows more relevant apps and files based on your recent activity. This aims to help you find what you need faster.

Microsoft is also using this test to gather feedback from users. If you try the new Start menu, you can share your thoughts with Microsoft through the feedback tools built into Windows 11. The company will use this feedback to make further improvements before the new Start menu rolls out to all users.

For now, the redesigned Start menu is only available to those who have joined the Dev Channel. If you want to try it, you need to sign up for the Windows Insider Program and select the Dev Channel in your settings. Microsoft has not announced when the new Start menu will be released to everyone, but testing in the Dev Channel is an important step in the process.

This update is part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve Windows 11 based on user feedback and modern design trends. The company encourages users to test new features early and provide input to help shape the final version.