Microsoft is testing a new app layout for Windows 11 Start Menu

Microsoft is experimenting with a redesigned Start menu for its Windows 11 operating system that displays apps in a grid layout instead of the current vertical list. The new "All apps" view arranges program icons in rows and columns, similar to the layout used in the cancelled Windows 10X and Microsoft's Android launcher, according to Windows Latest report.

With this potential update, Microsoft aims to provide a cleaner, more space-efficient way to access installed applications compared to the existing alphabetical list format. The grid design allows more apps to be visible at once without excessive scrolling.

"The good side of this grid layout is that it looks clean and organized and can better use space on the screen," observed Windows Latest, which enabled the experimental build to test the new functionality. "You can see more apps at once without having to scroll."

However, the publication noted some potential downsides as well. Replacing the simple list view with a dense grid of icons could appear cluttered or overwhelming, especially for users with many programs installed. Reading app names may also become difficult amidst the visual busyness when scrolling.

Microsoft has not officially announced plans to roll out this Start menu redesign. The grid layout is currently only appearing in leaked Windows Insider preview builds, suggesting the company is still evaluating the concept internally. It remains unclear if a setting to revert to the classic vertical list will be included.

Alongside the potential "All apps" overhaul, Microsoft is also testing improvements for the File Explorer utility. New features may incorporate capabilities like drag-and-drop in the address bar and integration with the company's new Copilot AI assistant.

The revamped Start layout continues Microsoft's evolving approach to the iconic menu, which has transformed from Windows' original program list design to the live tiles interface of Windows 8 before settling on static icons in Windows 11.


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