Windows 11 Takes Inspiration from iOS: A New Era for the Start Menu

In a move that promises to enhance user experience, Microsoft has introduced a major update to the Start Menu in the latest beta version of Windows 11. This update, which aims to simplify access to frequently used applications, brings a design overhaul that draws inspiration from mobile operating systems, particularly iOS.

According to a report from Neowin, the new feature appears in the test build 22635.4082. The update reorganizes the Start Menu into a more intuitive format by automatically categorizing all installed applications. This organization creates a library-like structure where apps are grouped by theme, similar to how they are managed in iOS and certain Android interfaces. When you hover over an icon, the name of the associated application is displayed, making navigation more straightforward.

Microsoft has introduced 29 different categories, echoing the organization found in the Microsoft Store. These categories include "Games," "Travel," "Security," "Music," "Developer Tools," "Entertainment," "Sports," "News," and more. Currently, this automatic sorting feature is only applied to apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store. As for third-party software, Microsoft has yet to make any official announcements. The timeline for when this feature will be rolled out to the stable versions of Windows 11 remains uncertain.

This update signifies a significant shift in how users will interact with their desktop applications, blending the convenience of mobile app management with the versatility of a traditional desktop environment. The approach not only modernizes the Start Menu but also makes it more user-friendly, particularly for those who are accustomed to the streamlined interfaces of smartphones and tablets.

Incorporating elements from iOS into Windows 11 is a strategic move by Microsoft. It reflects the growing influence of mobile design on desktop environments and underscores the company’s commitment to evolving the user interface to meet modern needs. As the boundaries between mobile and desktop experiences continue to blur, features like this are likely to become more common, providing users with a consistent and efficient experience across all their devices.

While the full implementation of this feature in the stable release of Windows 11 is still pending, the beta version gives us a glimpse of what the future holds. For now, users can expect a more organized and accessible Start Menu, with the potential for further enhancements as Microsoft continues to refine its latest operating system.