Microsoft confirms Windows 11’s new iOS : Start menu layout for All Apps View

Microsoft is reportedly testing a new Windows 11 Start menu feature that allows users to display more pinned apps without scrolling, according to Windows Latest.

Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 23H3 are introducing a refreshed Start menu layout that categorizes apps and games for better organization. Users will now have two new ways to display their apps on the “All Apps” page. The first option arranges apps in a Name-based Grid layout, while the second groups them by category for a more structured view.

While this update doesn’t drastically alter Windows 11’s signature Start menu, it brings a welcome improvement for users who prefer a more organized experience. Those who enjoyed live tiles or the iOS-style category view may find this change particularly useful.

Windows Latest first reported on the redesigned Start menu’s “All” section in 2024 and recently shared a hands-on experience with the leaked version.

Now, Microsoft has officially confirmed the leaked Start menu upgrade in a new blog post.

The company announced that the feature will roll out to Microsoft Windows 11 23H2 in the coming weeks. However, users eager to try the updated layout can access it early by joining the Beta Channel.

While not explicitly mentioned, Microsoft Windows Latest understands that Microsoft Windows 11 24H2 will also receive the new Start menu design.

Let’s take a closer look at new Start in Microsoft Windows 11

What’s New in the Start Menu?

The updated Start menu introduces two distinct layout options for organizing your apps, offering a more intuitive and visually appealing experience:

Name-Based Grid Layout

This layout arranges your apps in an alphabetical grid, with each application displayed as a tile for quick and easy browsing. It provides a structured, modernized version of the traditional app list, reminiscent of the live tiles from previous Windows versions but with a sleeker, more refined design.

Category View Layout

For those who prefer a more organized approach, the Category View layout groups apps based on their function, similar to how iOS categorizes applications. Featuring larger icons and a spacious arrangement, this layout enhances clarity and accessibility. While custom categories cannot be created, Microsoft appears to use AI-driven sorting to ensure similar apps are placed together, making navigation effortless.

The updated Start menu’s “All” page now features a Name grid layout, organizing apps in alphabetical order. Each app is displayed with a tile icon, making navigation more intuitive. For example, applications like Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Reader now appear under the letter A, ensuring a more streamlined browsing experience. Microsoft

A new “Category” view has been introduced, grouping apps based on their respective categories.

The layout feels more spacious and clean, featuring larger icons that enhance visual appeal. While it’s not quite the same as the beloved Windows Start live tiles, it does resemble small tiles in a way. At the same time, the design also bears a strong resemblance to the category-based app organization seen on iOS. Microsoft

Microsoft does not allow you to create your own category, and it’s possible that the company is using some type of small language model to group apps together.

The current Start menu presents a straightforward list of apps arranged alphabetically on the left side. Unlike the previous grid-style tiles, each app is displayed with its respective icon and accompanying text, though the organization remains somewhat unstructured.

Microsoft is still testing this revamped Start menu with Beta Channel testers and has not provided any official details on its broader rollout. However, according to Windows Latest, the updated Start menu could be introduced to Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 24H2 within the next two months.

More Start menu changes are planned

Also, this isn’t the only Start menu upgrade we’re getting in 2025. Microsoft

As you can see in the above screenshot, Windows Latest previously tested a new sidebar for the Start menu that allows you to view notifications, messages and apps opened on your Android phone.

Additionally, the Start menu now includes an optional feature that allows you to send files to your Android phone using the existing Phone Link integration.

What are your thoughts on the new Start menu? Share your opinions in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This is an AI-generated live blog and has not been edited by Localtak staff.