Microsoft has shared a first look at the redesign of the Windows 11 Start menu, revealing changes for normal Windows 11 devices and Copilot+ PCs.
The redesigned Start menu consolidates pinned apps, recommendations, and the full list of apps into a single scrollable panel for easier access.
Microsoft is also introducing AI actions in File Explorer to provide context-sensitive shortcuts for tasks like opening an image file with the Photos app.
Notepad app in Windows 11 is getting AI features for text generation and summarization, along with additional formatting options.
These upcoming features are expected to roll out to Windows 11 testers soon, with a potential release in the rumored Windows 11 25H2 update.
The new Start menu layout has received positive feedback for its transformation, although some users hope the option to remove the recommendations panel will still be available.
The redesign of the Start menu aims to make better use of space, with a more organized and visually appealing layout for Windows 11 users.
Windows 11 Notepad is being enhanced to provide a more feature-rich text editing experience, potentially replacing WordPad functionality in the OS.
Microsoft's focus on improving Windows 11 usability and productivity includes streamlining tasks with AI capabilities and enhancing native applications.
Overall, the updates for Windows 11 bring a mix of visual redesigns, productivity enhancements, and potential improvements in user experience.
While some users may have concerns about feature bloat, Microsoft continues to refine and iterate on Windows 11 to meet user needs.