If the Windows 11 Start menu has been a sticking point for you, some recent changes may help soften your stance.
Developers diving into recent Windows beta versions have uncovered a new “category” view in the Start menu that offers a nod to the familiar Windows 10 layout. This view organizes apps into specific categories, providing a structure reminiscent of the Windows 10 Start menu. Although this feature doesn’t allow for complete customization—you can’t create custom categories like “favorite apps”—it does automatically group apps into predefined categories such as “entertainment,” “music,” and more.
This feature was uncovered by Twitter/X user @phantomofearth, who spotted it in the latest Windows 11 beta, Build 22635.4082, which is part of the Beta Channel. The fact that this discovery was made in a Beta Channel build suggests that these changes could eventually make their way to a full release.
However, for the time being, the new category view isn’t officially active. It can only be enabled using specialized tools that tweak hidden registry settings, and Microsoft has yet to officially recognize this feature, as highlighted by Neowin. One of the main complaints about the Windows 11 Start menu has been its inflexibility, preventing users from organizing apps as they see fit. The introduction of categories could help address this issue.
In addition to the category view, the latest beta includes a useful feature that places media controls on the lock screen. This is particularly handy for those without a Windows Hello camera, as it allows access to media controls without unlocking the PC. (If you do have a Windows Hello camera, it will likely recognize you and unlock your device automatically.)
As Windows 11 continues its march toward the 24H2 update, expected later this fall, it’s possible that the Start menu’s Categories feature could be included in the final rollout.