Microsoft is rolling out a redesigned Start menu for Windows 11, four years after the operating system was launched. This update finally fixes one of the biggest complaints users had: the need to click the “All” button to view every installed app. The new Windows 11 Start menu now lets you see all your programs instantly, with three different layout options to choose from.
The previous Start menu consisted of pinned apps at the top and a Recommended section beneath, which allowed Windows to automatically select and display shortcuts and files. The most recent Windows 11 update allows users to control this section and even remove it altogether.
To disable the Recommended section, right-click anywhere in the Start menu, select Settings, go to the Personalization section, and turn off the following options: Show recently added apps, Show recommended files, and Show recommendations for tips.
Once you disable these features, the Start menu will show a complete list of all your apps directly beneath your pinned shortcuts, eliminating the need for an extra click. If you prefer to keep the Recommended section, your list of apps will appear below it.
The updated Windows 11 Start menu also introduces flexible viewing modes. You can organize apps in:
A grid view arranged alphabetically, which is the most compact and detailed option
A list view in alphabetical order
A category view, which groups similar apps together
If you do not make a selection, Windows will default to the category view.
You can only access the new Windows 11 Start menu if your system is running build 26100.7019, 26200.7019, or a newer version of Windows 11. To find out your Windows version, simply press Windows + R, enter winver, and then press Enter.
Before that, make sure all updates are installed by going to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
If your system is updated but the newly designed Start menu does not appear automatically, you can turn it on in manual mode using ViveTool, a reliable software for revealing hidden Windows features.
Here is how:
Download ViveTool and unzip it to C:\vive.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Navigate to the folder using:
cd c:\vive
Then run this command:
vivetool /enable /id:57048231,47205210,56328729,48433719
After restarting, the Windows 11 new feature should be active, giving your operating system a cleaner, faster, and more customizable Start experience.