Microsoft Working on Customisable Start Menu and More for Windows 11

Last Updated on December 3, 2021 by Anu Joy

Microsoft is testing out new ways to let you customise your Start menu layout. Additionally, it is also working on improving the taskbar. However, these updates are only available for Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.

The latest Windows 11 Insider build 22509 has modified the Start menu to show more pinned apps or recommendations. This new update indicates that Microsoft shows no signs of going back to the Windows 10 Start menu, much to the dismay of its fans.

The tech company has taken a page off Apple’s book when it comes to minimalism, so don’t expect a Start Menu filled with all of your apps. Even the taskbar is centred like that of the macOS. It goes to show that imitation is indeed the best form of flattery.

The newest Insider build has also fixed some issues with the taskbar. The Start, Search, Widgets, Task View, and Chat icons in the taskbar will no longer unexpectedly increase in size when the system scaling is set to 125%.

Additionally, the new version of the Insider build promises to make it easier to use the Edge browser while using Narrator. Narrator is a screen-reading app that reads out text on the screen. Microsoft is also bringing the clock and date back to the taskbars of secondary monitors. It is to be noted that this update will not be available to all Insiders just yet. Prior to this, many had to resort to third-party apps such as ElevenClock to view the clock on multiple monitors.

Here are some other updates in the new Insider build:

• Windows Sandbox will now allow you to reboot inside virtualized environments.
• Some of the entry points for network and device settings in control Panel will be redirected to the corresponding pages in Settings.
• Advanced sharing settings will now be moved to a new page under Advanced Network Settings, in the Settings app.
• Printers & Scanners in Settings will show more information about the devices.
• Windows 11 will now remember if you turn on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in airplane mode.

Don’t expect these features to roll out soon. You will have to wait for these updates to make the rounds of the Dev Channel first. This could take months. You could expect these updates to roll out in Windows 11’s monthly or even annual updates.