Microsoft Spends Nearly a Year Designing the New Windows 11 Start Menu
The tech giant has invested approximately twelve months in redesigning one of the central elements of its operating system. After evaluating and discarding dozens of very different concepts, the final option does not drastically alter the appearance that users already know. 🖥️
An Evolutionary Approach, Not Revolutionary
The company chose to maintain the conceptual base of the previous menu, introducing mainly aesthetic adjustments. This means that those who were not happy with the previous design will probably not find major novelties either. The goal was to adapt the component to a faster and data-saturated digital environment, taking into account the feedback collected on its Feedback Hub platform.
The pillars of the new design:- Speed: It must be the fastest element, as it is the first one the user interacts with upon startup.
- Customization: It must feel personal and offer a sense of order, without overwhelming visually.
- Clear hierarchy: It is essential that the user always knows which part of the menu they are in.
The search bar is positioned at the top so the user can start searching for apps or documents immediately, prioritizing efficiency from the first click.
The Element Generating the Most Discussion
Just below the search bar and pinned apps is the recommendations ribbon. This section, enabled by default, has generated divided opinions in the community. Microsoft defends its inclusion by arguing that users request intelligent and personalized suggestions that update instantly. 💬
Control over the experience:- The suggested icons ribbon can be disabled if the user prefers.
- This option gives each person some control over how information is presented.
- It represents the most significant change that many will notice in this update.
A Year of Work for a Subtle Evolution
In summary, after an extensive development period, the most radical modification many will see is the ability to choose whether to show or hide a row of recommended apps. This effort reflects a philosophy that prioritizes gradual improvement over disruptive change, a decision that will have its defenders and critics. ⚖️