Microsoft Shares Rejected Windows 11 Start Menu Redesign Concepts

Microsoft recently revealed several rejected concept designs for the Windows 11 Start menu, shedding light on the extensive experimentation behind its upcoming redesign. These concepts demonstrate the company’s commitment to evolving the Start menu while balancing innovation with familiarity.

Among the concepts were designs featuring more rounded shapes and widget-like functionality, including a dedicated “For You” section that aggregates Teams meetings, YouTube videos, and recently used files. Another prototype separated this personalized section to the side, focusing the main menu on categorized apps. There was even a bold design that took up the entire vertical screen space, allowing users to scroll through distinct sections such as shortcuts, apps, files, and phone integration tools.

Microsoft’s design team employed a variety of creative methods including whiteboards, Figma frames, and paper prototypes to explore these layouts. They engaged over 300 Windows 11 enthusiasts through co-creation sessions and analyzed eye-tracking data and user reactions to refine their approach. The goal was to enhance app visibility, customization, and speed without disrupting decades of user habits.

The finalized redesign introduces a wider Start menu that allows users to disable the recommended feed of files and apps, addressing a common user request. Additionally, the integration of a phone companion panel offers quick access to recent calls, messages, and phone files directly from the Start menu, streamlining cross-device workflows.

Currently, this new Start menu is being tested with Windows Insiders and is expected to roll out to all Windows 11 users in the coming months. This update exemplifies Microsoft’s iterative design philosophy and responsiveness to user feedback, balancing innovation with usability.

Broader Significance and Opportunities

Microsoft’s transparent sharing of its design process offers valuable lessons for software developers and UI/UX designers. It highlights the importance of iterative prototyping, user engagement, and balancing innovation with user familiarity. Businesses can draw inspiration from these approaches to enhance their own product designs and user experiences.

For tech leaders, the integration of personalized content and cross-device functionality in the Start menu underscores the growing demand for seamless, context-aware interfaces that improve productivity and engagement. This trend will likely influence future OS and application designs across the industry.