Windows 11's new Start menu is now available – but I wouldn't rush to get it yet

There are a few reasons why a cautious approach makes sense

· TechRadar

News By Darren Allan published 29 October 2025

(Image credit: Microsoft)

  • Windows 11 has a new preview update available
  • It carries the revamped Start menu, but on a gradual rollout
  • Due to that – and the fact it's still in testing – it's better to wait for the finished version of this update next month (arriving in two weeks)

Windows 11's new Start menu is now officially available to everyone, although I wouldn't leap out of your chair to get it just yet.

That's because it's part of a freshly deployed Windows 11 update, which is a preview release that Microsoft just kicked off – and that involves certain caveats (which I'll return to in a moment).

Microsoft tells us that a key part of this update is: "The redesigned Start menu, built to help you access your apps more quickly and smoothly. Its redesigned layout makes it easier than ever to find what you need."

The changes include making this part of the interface a single scrollable panel (as opposed to having the full app list on a separate panel, as is currently the case), and there's a pair of new views (category and grid) to make finding the apps you need easier.

You also get a choice to turn off Microsoft's recommendations panel, which is a great addition here – plus the attached Phone Link panel, which will be useful for those who hook up their phone to their Windows 11 PC.

This is one of the bigger changes to arrive for the Windows 11 interface in some time, so there'll doubtless be something of a rush to get it – but there are reasons to be somewhat cautious here.

Analysis: hold fire for now, unless you're super-keen

(Image credit: Microsoft)

There are quite a few people out there who want the redesigned Start menu, and I get that – there are some nifty changes with it, making this part of the interface more flexible (and allowing for dumping Microsoft's recommendations, as noted).

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