Windows 11 gets redesigned Start menu in optional preview KB5067036

Microsoft began rolling out a redesigned Start menu for Windows 11 in late October 2025, delivering the change as an optional nonsecurity preview update, KB5067036, for devices running versions 24H2 and 25H2. The update, which appears on preview builds 26100.7019 and 26200.7019, brings a reworked Start experience alongside visual and productivity improvements across the operating system.

The centerpiece is a Start menu that puts the full list of installed apps on the main page in a scrollable All section and offers multiple view options, including Category and Grid layouts designed to make apps easier to find. The menu adapts its layout to screen size, showing more pinned apps and recommendations on larger displays, and users can disable or hide sections such as Recommended items or pinned apps through Settings under Personalization. A new Phone Link button next to the Search bar surfaces recent activity from paired Android and iPhone devices and enables quick file transfers or resuming mobile apps on the PC.

The update also introduces other interface changes. File Explorer Home can optionally surface recommended files based on frequency or recency. The taskbar receives animated...