New Windows 11 Start Menu Features: Full Guide to Customization and Control
AI-generated, human-reviewed.
A major refresh for the Windows 11 Start menu is rolling out soon, offering users greater control over layout, visible sections, and size. These changes are designed to let you fine-tune your workflow and minimize distractions, making everyday tasks more efficient.
Why the Windows 11 Start Menu Update Matters
On Hands-On Windows, Paul Thurrott highlighted several key improvements in the next Start menu, now available to Windows Insiders and expected to ship widely with the Windows 11 26H2 update in late 2024. The Start menu now provides more customizable options, letting users toggle between pinned apps, all apps, and recent items — or hide these entirely for a cleaner look.
This update is particularly relevant as Microsoft is focusing on giving users more say in how their desktops function, with small customization tweaks that can make a big difference for everyday efficiency.
What’s New in the Windows 11 Start Menu
- Section Control: Users can now independently decide if “Pinned,” “Recent,” or “All Apps” appear in the Start menu.
- Start Menu Sizing: The new menu includes “Automatic,” “Small,” and “Large” size options, letting you fit more on the screen or save space.
- Sticky Layout: The menu no longer switches to secondary screens when accessing “All Apps” or recommendations. Everything is consolidated in the main Start menu.
- Minimalist Option: By disabling all sections, the Start menu can be completely empty except for essentials (search, account/profile, power).
- Improved Pinned App Management: Quick toggling to show more or fewer pinned apps.
- Ad/Suggestion Control: Options to suppress recommended files and ads for a distraction-free experience.
- Visual Tweaks: Widgets move depending on taskbar placement, and the Start menu animates from its new position if the taskbar is top, left, or right.
How to Try the New Start Menu Early
- Availability: As of June 2024, the new Start menu is available to Windows Insiders.
- How to Access: Join the Windows Insider Program and update to the current preview build (preferably in the Dev or 25H2 channel).
- Release Timeline: Public rollout is likely with the 26H2 enablement package later this year.
How to Customize the New Start Menu
Step-by-Step Guide
- Open Settings: Right-click the Start menu > “Settings,” or go to Settings > Personalization > Start.
- Toggle Sections: Enable or disable “Pinned,” “Recent,” and “All Apps” sections as needed.
- Adjust Size: Select between “Automatic,” “Small,” or “Large” depending on your screen size and preference.
- Recent and Suggested Items: Decide whether to show recent files, suggested apps, or recommendations—turn these off for privacy or minimalism.
- Profile and Power: The bottom of the menu remains for your profile (account switching/sign-out) and power options.
These options let you streamline your Start experience — quick launch for frequent apps, a bigger menu for multitasking, or a minimal launcher if you prefer it uncluttered.
What This Means for You
- More Control: Users frustrated with previous limitations get meaningful customization tools without third-party utilities.
- Cleaner Workspace: Turning off recommendations and recent items can reduce distractions and boost focus.
- Consistency Across Devices: The new Start menu adapts to different display configurations and taskbar orientations.
- Quick Access to All Apps: “All Apps” is more seamlessly integrated—no more switching to a secondary view.
The Bottom Line
This Windows 11 Start menu update isn’t about flashy redesigns but about practical control. Paul Thurrott found that these small but meaningful changes let users tailor the Start menu to their workflow, whether prioritizing space, speed, or simplicity. If you want early access, join the Windows Insider Program; otherwise, watch for the 26H2 update later this year.
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