Microsoft is exploring the possibility of making a change to Windows 11 that would declutter the Start menu interface. The change has currently been implemented in the recent build 23575, which was released to the Dev channel for testing. Specifically, the change pertains to the Recommended panel in the Start menu.
According to Windows Latest, Microsoft has introduced a grouping system for recently added apps in the Recommended section. Previously, these apps would appear as single entries, but now they are all organized into a ‘Recently added’ folder within the section, reducing clutter.
While this is a helpful improvement to streamline the Start menu, it is worth noting that the rollout to testers is being done in phases. Initially, only some users in the Dev channel will have access to the updated interface.
In addition to this change, Microsoft has addressed several bugs in build 23575, including File Explorer crashes, issues with certain PC games, and the disappearance of Copilot from the taskbar.
Looking ahead, it is hoped that this change will progress from the Dev channel to the Beta channels and eventually become part of the official release version of Windows 11. It would be beneficial to extend this organizing system to other parts of the Recommended panel through grouping in folders.
However, there are concerns about the Recommended section as a whole. Windows Latest highlighted a post on Microsoft’s Feedback Hub calling for the ability to turn off the Recommended section and have it disappear entirely from the Start menu in Windows 11. The post has gained nearly 10,000 upvotes on the hub, indicating a strong desire for more customization options in the Windows 11 UI.
If Microsoft believes that such options may complicate the interface, they could be hidden away for advanced users to access. The ability to personalize various aspects of the UI would be greatly appreciated by many users.
There have been ongoing concerns about the Recommended section, particularly regarding suggestions for websites and potential advertising. Although Microsoft has experimented with and abandoned similar features in the past, it appears that these suggestions will be included in the final release of Windows 11.
In conclusion, the Recommended panel in Windows 11’s interface could benefit from further improvements, but the potential change introduced in the latest preview build is a step in the right direction.
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